3
$\begingroup$

I wonder if it's known how time perception works at the fundamental level.

For example, to count accurately a minute/hour, do we have to keep track of the time passed counting in our minds or observing our enviroment? In the same way we can't know how much distance we've really travelled if there is no reference frame, if we were totally isolated, would we measure time accurately?

Or we could have some internal clock which helps us to measure time. I think that one problem to test this is that things like hunger, sleep, etc. could also work as clocks, so we can't be totally isolated.

For example, Richard Feynman though that every person could count a minute with some error, but the error will always be the same.

Improve this question
$\endgroup$
2
  • $\begingroup$ en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Circadian_clock Also, human beings have an aproximate 90 minute rhythm (which shows for example in the rhythm of REM phases). $\endgroup$
    – user3116
    Commented Dec 23, 2013 at 13:39
  • $\begingroup$ I wonder what the hell happens to all internal clocks when you're dreaming, having hours experience within minutes. $\endgroup$
    – Tomáš Zato
    Commented Nov 24, 2014 at 20:13

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
1
$\begingroup$

There are several mechanisms for time perception that depend on the task performed (counting, judging prospectively, retrospectively) as well as on the duration of the interval to be judged (duration perception for 1s intervals works differently from 1minute or 1 year). Overall the idea you advance of multiple mechanisms is well accepted. This is just a link to an article just published on the matter.

http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=your-brain-has-two-clocks&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+sciam%2Fpsychology+%28Topic%3A+Psychology%29

Perhaps if you could be more precise in your question and restrict your domain it will be much easier to answer about the neural foundations you are looking for

Improve this answer
$\endgroup$

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.