Time Travel Logic by Olivia Clark

“Time Travel Logic” tackles the age-old question of whether time travel can exist without creating logical paradoxes. It navigates the complex intersection of philosophy, science, and fiction, scrutinizing concepts like the grandfather paradox, where altering the past creates inconsistencies. The book uniquely argues that paradoxes often stem from flawed assumptions about time and causality rather than being inherent impossibilities, suggesting that rigorous logical analysis can reveal consistent interpretations of time travel scenarios.
The book explores various theories of time, causality, and identity, then delves into logical systems like modal logic and scientific theories from physics, such as general relativity, to address temporal paradoxes. Applying formal logic to dissect narratives, it pinpoints where contradictions arise in fictional scenarios. For example, causal loops, where an object or information is sent back in time, becoming its own origin, are examined through this lens. This approach offers a toolkit for analyzing and potentially resolving these issues.

Structured in four parts, the book progresses from philosophical groundwork to logical systems, scientific contexts, and finally, applications in popular culture. This progression allows for a comprehensive understanding of how logic, philosophy, and physics interplay in theoretical possibilities and fictional representations of temporal displacement.
Ultimately, “Time Travel Logic” aims to provide a structured framework for understanding a topic often treated superficially, making it invaluable for students, researchers, and anyone intrigued by the science and philosophy of time travel.