TIME ASYMMETRY IN ELECTRODYNAMICS AND COSMOLOGY

The concept of the barrow of time ' is discussed in relation to thermodynamics, electrodynamics and cosmology Time symmetric electrodynamics, the absorber theory of radiation and quantum transitions receive attention to develop a working theory applicable to a universe with a perfect future absorber and an imperfect past absorber, such as the steady state cosmological model. It is stated that the approach adopted herein establishes a strong connection between the electrodynamic and cosmological arrows of time, and points a way towards linking these arrows with the thermodynamic one. 1. THE ARROWS OF TIME IN PHYSICS What do we mean by the arrow of time? in a somewhat vague manner, we may associate it with the sense in which we relate our subjective experiences to the space-time manifold. It would be rash to attempt a precise definition that will satisfy all scientists and philosophersl it is possible, however, to discuss the subject in a rigorous manner in the more restricted field o