Now, Factuality and Conditio Humana

TL;DR

This paper explores the distinction between inner and outer time, emphasizing the importance of inner time in human existence and its role in quantum theory and thermodynamics, despite the challenges in defining it physically.

Contribution

It offers a philosophical analysis of inner time's unique qualities and its significance in fundamental physics, highlighting its persistent relevance.

Findings

Inner time is future-directed and has a distinguished 'now'

Outer physical time tends to resemble space and may fade as a fundamental concept

Inner time remains central in quantum theory and thermodynamics

Abstract

The relationship between inner and outer time is discussed. Inner time is intrinsically future directed and possesses the quality of a distinguished "now". Both of these qualities get lost in the operationalized external physical time, which, advancing towards more fundamental physics, tends to become more similar to space and even fade away as a fundamental notion. However, inner time as a constitutive feature of human existence holds its place in the heart of quantum theory and thermodynamics.