The Prediction Paradox
The Chronovisor is a hypothetical device, that looks and operates a bit like a laptop computer, but which allows one to see the future (or the past). Whether it truly exists or not is a matter of conjecture, as is also the question of how it might be possible for it to work, if it does exist. Let’s suppose that it does exist, just for this momentary discussion. Suppose further, then, the following scenario. Joe Schmo is planning to go swimming at the ocean beach next week, and wonders whether it will be a good day to do so. So, he operates his Chronovisor to view the time and place of his planned swimming trip. There on the screen, he sees his future self at the beach, enjoying a swim—but then, horror of horrors, he sees himself attacked and grievously injured by a giant shark. Of course, Joe immediately cancels his plan to go to the beach, and warns the authorities to close the beach for that day. He then checks his Chronovisor again, and is plea...

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