A song turned sideways would sound as sweet. (5th May 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ferguson, Zachary
• Is Part Of: Analysis. Volume 81:Number 1(2021)
• Page Start: 14
• Page End: 18
• Publication Date: 2021-05-05
• Subjects: A-Theory -- B-Theory -- spacetime -- dynamic theory of time -- music -- aesthetic value -- art; Philosophy -- Periodicals; 105
• DOI: 10.1093/analys/anaa026
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-2638

Abstract

Abstract: Markosian (2020) presents an argument against certain theories of time based on the aesthetic value of music. He argues that turning a piece of music sideways in time destroys its intrinsic value, which would not be possible if the Spacetime Thesis were true. In this paper I show that sideways music poses no problems for any theory of time by demonstrating that turning a piece of music sideways does not affect its intrinsic value. I do this by appealing to spatial analogies that highlight the similarities between spatial and temporal rotations.