Felt Time by Marc Wittmann explores the subjective perception of time from neurological and psychological perspectives. The author investigates how humans experience time and the biological and mental processes underlying this experience. The book aims to explain why time perception varies among individuals and how it evolves across different stages of life.

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Content Overview

Subjective Time and Perceptual Processes

Wittmann elaborates on how subjective time is formed and how individuals experience it. He examines why time sometimes feels like it is passing quickly or slowly and explains how this perception is influenced by emotional states, levels of attention, and states of consciousness. The role of the brain in time perception and the concept of the internal clock are central themes in this section.

Time Perception Across Life Stages

The book explores how time perception changes throughout life, from childhood to old age. It presents scientific findings on how children develop an understanding of time, the differences in time management and perception in adulthood, and how time is experienced during aging. This section delves into the neurological and psychological foundations of age-related changes in time perception.

Emotions and Time Perception

Wittmann analyzes the impact of emotions on time perception, explaining how emotional states like stress, fear, and happiness influence the subjective speed of time. Research findings on how emotional experiences modulate the brain’s perception of time are highlighted in this section.

Body Rhythms and the Internal Clock

The book examines the role of bodily rhythms and biological clocks in shaping time perception. It discusses how physiological rhythms such as the sleep-wake cycle, heart rate, and other bodily processes influence an individual's experience of time. Additionally, the neurological basis of the internal clock and its synchronization with environmental factors are thoroughly discussed.

Time Management and Patience

Wittmann explores the relationship between individuals’ time management skills and their levels of patience. He provides scientific explanations for why some people are better at waiting while others tend to be impatient. The concept of temporal myopia is introduced, along with an evaluation of how individuals plan for the future and manage their perception of time. Felt Time offers an in-depth analysis of the subjective experience of time, blending scientific insights with practical observations to uncover the complexities of how we perceive and manage time in daily life.