What is the theme in Einstein's Dreams by Alan Lightman?

Actions and consequences make up another theme in the book. One of the primary ways that time affects people is through actions and consequences. This relationship between actions and consequences is explored in several of Einstein's dreams. In the dream where cause and effect aren't necessarily sequential, the sometimes circular relationship of actions and consequences is pointed out. Is the man alone because he will become obnoxious, or does he become obnoxious because he is alone? Does a crime spree erupt because of a totalitarian government, or does the government become totalitarian because of crime?