What conclusion follows if neither the past nor the future exists?

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Prepare for ASU's PHI101 Introduction to Philosophy Test. Engage with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and detailed explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

If neither the past nor the future exists, then it logically follows that no statement concerning either the past or the future can possess a truth value. This conclusion is based on the understanding that truth values are assigned to statements that refer to entities or events that have existence. Since both the past and the future are declared non-existent in this scenario, any assertions made about them would have no basis in reality and therefore would not be true or false—they would lack truth value.

In this context, stating that only the present has a truth value aligns with the conclusion that only present events or states can be affirmed or denied based on their actuality. Statements about the non-existent past or future cannot be validated, thus reinforcing the conclusion drawn. Hence, when considering the implications of both past and future lacking existence, it becomes clear that the focus on present reality is what allows for meaningful assertions, while dismissing considerations of the past and future leads to the recognition that those statements simply do not hold truth value.

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