Abstract:  In this talk I will discuss two classic articles on backwards causation, Max Black's 'Why cannot an effect precede its cause?' (1956) and Michael Dummett's 'Bringing about the Past' (1964).  I am very critical of Black's bilking argument against the possibility of backwards causation.  I am largely in agreement with Dummett's reasoning, but disagree with him over the best response to a sceptical argument which attempts to show that an agent can have no reason to bring about past events.  This will be an old-school talk: no empirical data, live animals, or unnecessary formalism will feature; nor will there be silly photos of every philosopher I mention.  There will be a handout (of the non-financial kind).