Thermodynamic Irreversibility: Does the Big Bang Explain What It Purports to Explain

Philosophy of Science 72 (5):751-763 (2005)
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Abstract

In this paper I examine Albert’s (2000) claim that the low entropy state of the early universe is sufficient to explain irreversible thermodynamic phenomena. In particular, I argue that conditionalising on the initial state of the universe does not have the explanatory power it is presumed to have. I present several arguments to the effect that Albert’s ‘past hypothesis’ alone cannot justify the belief in past non-equilibrium conditions or ground the veracity of records of the past.

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References found in this work

Time’s arrow and Archimedes’ point.Huw Price - 1996 - Philosophical and Phenomenological Research 59 (4):1093-1096.
Asymmetries in Time.Paul Horwich - 1990 - Noûs 24 (5):804-806.

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