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Being and Becoming in Modern Physics
Steven Savitt · 2021 · Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy
Spiritual Evidence Map/Last updated May 10, 2026/Claims v1.0.0-provisional/Sources v1.0.0/Scores provisional
Summary
Explains how relativity bears on the metaphysics of time, including presentism, eternalism, becoming, simultaneity, and arguments for a block-universe interpretation.
Why it matters here
The standard reference for the relativity-based case for a block universe and a useful counterweight to overly simple 'physics proves fate' claims.
Linked claims
Evidence score 6/10
Block Universe / Eternalism
The 4D 'block' picture follows naturally from special relativity, where there is no objective universal 'now'. Many physicists and philosophers accept it.
Evidence score 4/10
Growing Block Universe
The past is real and growing. The future is not yet. A compromise that preserves becoming.
Evidence score 4/10
Presentism — only the present is real
The natural common-sense view: only what exists now exists. Hard to reconcile with relativity but not refuted.