Human perception of subjective time

Research into the human perception of time explores how neurological, psychological, and biological factors cause subjective experiences to differ from actual clock measurements. One primary theory suggests that the brain’s processing of new versus routine experiences dictates time’s perceived speed; novel events create dense memories that make time feel longer, while repetitive routines can make time feel compressed.

Age is a significant factor in this phenomenon. Beyond the lack of unique memory markers in adulthood, the proportional model proposed by philosopher Paul Janet suggests that time is perceived in relation to the total amount of life already lived. For a child, a single year represents a significant portion of their existence, whereas for an older adult, the same duration is a much smaller fraction of their total experience.

Biological and neurological elements also influence the internal clock. While neurotransmitters like dopamine and circadian rhythms play roles, research by Professor Adrian Bejan indicates that physical changes in the nervous system during aging can affect the speed of electrical signal transmission and information processing. Neuroscientist David Eagleman has noted that “time is not measured, it is remembered,” highlighting the link between memory and subjective experience.

Beyond biological and psychological frameworks, some perspectives suggest that time perception may be influenced by consciousness-based shifts, such as entering a “flow state,” which can cause time to feel as though it is expanding or contracting.

Recent discussions have expanded this research to include the broader context of global longevity. Virologist Professor Radostina Alexandrova noted that the global population of people aged 60 and over surpassed children under five in 2020, with the over-65 demographic expected to double by 2050. She observed that while aging is linked to chronic diseases, maintaining a positive attitude toward the process can increase life expectancy by approximately 7.5 years.