Counterfactuals in Branching Time: The Weakest Solution

TL;DR

This paper proposes a minimalistic approach combining Ockhamist branching time logic with a basic counterfactual logic to address key metaphysical issues in temporally sensitive counterfactuals.

Contribution

It introduces the weakest consistent formal framework for analyzing counterfactuals in branching time models, simplifying previous complex solutions.

Findings

Identifies key metaphysical problems in counterfactuals with time

Proposes a minimal logical framework combining branching time and counterfactual logic

Argues for the simplicity and effectiveness of the weakest solution

Abstract

In this paper, we present a formal analysis of temporally sensitive counterfactual conditionals. We observe a set of key metaphysical and conceptual problems in regards to counterfactual statements and time. Bearing that in mind, we present the weakest combination of Ockhamist branching time temporal logic and minimal counterfactual logic P and argue in favor of that simple solution.