scholarly journals Logarithmic encoding of ensemble time intervals

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yue Ren ◽  
Fredrik Allenmark ◽  
Hermann J. Müller ◽  
Zhuanghua Shi
Keyword(s):  
Time Perception ◽  
Geometric Mean ◽  
Internal Representation ◽  
Internal Clock ◽  
Time Range ◽  
Subjective Time ◽  
Logarithmic Scale ◽  
Linear Scale ◽  
Ensemble Averaging ◽  
Time Intervals

AbstractAlthough time perception is based on the internal representation of time, whether the subjective timeline is scaled linearly or logarithmically remains an open issue. Evidence from previous research is mixed: while the classical internal-clock model assumes a linear scale with scalar variability, there is evidence that logarithmic timing provides a better fit to behavioral data. A major challenge for investigating the nature of the internal scale is that the retrieval process required for time judgments may involve a remapping of the subjective time back to the objective scale, complicating any direct interpretation of behavioral findings. Here, we used a novel approach, requiring rapid intuitive ‘ensemble’ averaging of a whole set of time intervals, to probe the subjective timeline. Specifically, observers’ task was to average a series of successively presented, auditory or visual, intervals in the time range 300-1300 ms. Importantly, the intervals were taken from three sets of durations, which were distributed such that the arithmetic mean (from the linear scale) and the geometric mean (from the logarithmic scale) were clearly distinguishable. Consistently across the three sets and the two presentation modalities, our results revealed subjective averaging to be close to the geometric mean, indicative of a logarithmic timeline underlying time perception.

scholarly journals Logarithmic encoding of ensemble time intervals

2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Yue Ren ◽  
Fredrik Allenmark ◽  
Hermann J. Müller ◽  
Zhuanghua Shi
Keyword(s):  
Time Perception ◽  
Geometric Mean ◽  
Internal Representation ◽  
Internal Clock ◽  
Time Range ◽  
Subjective Time ◽  
Logarithmic Scale ◽  
Linear Scale ◽  
Ensemble Averaging ◽  
Time Intervals

Abstract Although time perception is based on the internal representation of time, whether the subjective timeline is scaled linearly or logarithmically remains an open issue. Evidence from previous research is mixed: while the classical internal-clock model assumes a linear scale with scalar variability, there is evidence that logarithmic timing provides a better fit to behavioral data. A major challenge for investigating the nature of the internal scale is that the retrieval process required for time judgments may involve a remapping of the subjective time back to the objective scale, complicating any direct interpretation of behavioral findings. Here, we used a novel approach, requiring rapid intuitive ‘ensemble’ averaging of a whole set of time intervals, to probe the subjective timeline. Specifically, observers’ task was to average a series of successively presented, auditory or visual, intervals in the time range 300–1300 ms. Importantly, the intervals were taken from three sets of durations, which were distributed such that the arithmetic mean (from the linear scale) and the geometric mean (from the logarithmic scale) were clearly distinguishable. Consistently across the three sets and the two presentation modalities, our results revealed subjective averaging to be close to the geometric mean, indicative of a logarithmic timeline underlying time perception.

The Internal Clock: Electroencephalographic Evidence for Oscillatory Processes Underlying Time Perception

1994 ◽  
Vol 47 (2) ◽  
pp. 241-289 ◽  
Author(s):  
Michel Treisman ◽  
Norman Cook ◽  
Peter L. N. Naish ◽  
Janice K. MacCrone
Keyword(s):  
Time Perception ◽  
Time Estimation ◽  
Internal Clock ◽  
Temporal Perception ◽  
Time Intervals ◽  
Eeg Spectrum ◽  
Biological Source ◽  
Temporal System ◽  
And Performance ◽  
Oscillatory Processes

It has been proposed that temporal perception and performance depend on a biological source of temporal information. A model for a temporal oscillator put forward by Treisman, Faulkner, Naish, and Brogan (1990) predicted that if intense sensory pulses (such as auditory clicks) were presented to subjects at suitable rates they would perturb the frequency at which the temporal oscillator runs and so cause over- or underestimation of time. The resulting pattern of interference between sensory pulse rates and time judgments would depend on the frequency of the temporal oscillator and so might allow that frequency to be estimated. Such interference patterns were found using auditory clicks and visual flicker (Treisman & Brogan, 1992; Treisman et al., 1990). The present study examines time estimation together with the simultaneously recorded electroencephalogram to examine whether evidence of such an interference pattern can be found in the EEG. Alternative models for the organization of a temporal system consisting of an oscillator or multiple oscillators are considered and predictions derived from them relating to the EEG. An experiment was run in which time intervals were presented for estimation, auditory clicks being given during those intervals, and the EEG was recorded concurrently. Analyses of the EEG revealed interactions between auditory click rates and certain EEG components which parallel the interference patterns previously found. The overall pattern of EEG results is interpreted as favouring a model for the organization of the temporal system in which sets of click-sensitive oscillators spaced at intervals of about 12.8 Hz contribute to the EEG spectrum. These are taken to represent a series of harmonically spaced distributions of oscillators involved in time-keeping.

How Long Has It Been? Self-Construal and Subjective Time Perception

2021 ◽  
pp. 014616722110169
Author(s):  
Eugene Y. Chan ◽  
Najam U. Saqib
Keyword(s):  
Time Perception ◽  
Internal Clock ◽  
Subjective Time ◽  
Online Video ◽  
Human Beings ◽  
Self Construal ◽  
Interdependent Self

Do people with independent and interdependent self-construals perceive the amount of time that has passed differently? Results from four experiments (one preregistered) and three supplementary ones reveal that an independent (vs. interdependent) self-construal elongates time perception by making individuals feel that more time has passed than in reality. We find evidence that this is likely because an independent self-construal increases arousal that affects one’s “internal clock,” which determines the subjective passage of time. We find this effect with externally valid and practical measures, such as by measuring how long an online video feels, how long loading a webpage feels, and how long waiting in a line feels. Our research adds to an understanding of the consequences of self-construal for one of human beings’ most important judgments—time. We discuss the theoretical and practical considerations of our results as well as research limitations in closing.

Discounting Time and Time Discounting: Subjective Time Perception and Intertemporal Preferences

2009 ◽  
Vol 46 (4) ◽  
pp. 543-556 ◽  
Author(s):  
Gal Zauberman ◽  
B. Kyu Kim ◽  
Selin A. Malkoc ◽  
James R. Bettman
Keyword(s):  
Time Perception ◽  
Hyperbolic Discounting ◽  
Subjective Time ◽  
Multiple Time ◽  
Subjective Perceptions ◽  
Objective Time ◽  
Trade Offs ◽  
Intertemporal Preferences ◽  
Constant Rate ◽  
Within Subjects

Consumers often make decisions about outcomes and events that occur over time. This research examines consumers' sensitivity to the prospective duration relevant to their decisions and the implications of such sensitivity for intertemporal trade-offs, especially the degree of present bias (i.e., hyperbolic discounting). The authors show that participants' subjective perceptions of prospective duration are not sufficiently sensitive to changes in objective duration and are nonlinear and concave in objective time, consistent with psychophysical principles. More important, this lack of sensitivity can explain hyperbolic discounting. The results replicate standard hyperbolic discounting effects with respect to objective time but show a relatively constant rate of discounting with respect to subjective time perceptions. The results are replicated between subjects (Experiment 1) and within subjects (Experiments 2), with multiple time horizons and multiple descriptors, and with different measurement orders. Furthermore, the authors show that when duration is primed, subjective time perception is altered (Experiment 4) and hyperbolic discounting is reduced (Experiment 3).

Perception of Temporal Patterns

1985 ◽  
Vol 2 (4) ◽  
pp. 411-440 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dirk-Jan Povel ◽  
Peter Essens
Keyword(s):  
Computer Program ◽  
Temporal Pattern ◽  
Basic Assumption ◽  
Temporal Structure ◽  
Internal Representation ◽  
Temporal Patterns ◽  
Internal Clock ◽  
Yield Data ◽  
Measuring Device ◽  
Insight Into

To gain insight into the internal representation of temporal patterns, we studied the perception and reproduction of tone sequences in which only the tone-onset intervals were varied. A theory of the processing of such sequences, partly implemented as a computer program, is presented. A basic assumption of the theory is that perceivers try to generate an internal clock while listening to a temporal pattern. This internal clock is of a flexible nature that adapts itself to certain characteristics of the pattern under consideration. The distribution of accented events perceived in the sequence is supposed to determine whether a clock can (and which clock will) be generated internally. Further it is assumed that if a clock is induced in the perceiver, it will be used as a measuring device to specify the temporal structure of the pattern. The nature of this specification is formalized in a tentative coding model. Three experiments are reported that test different aspects of the model. In Experiment 1, subjects reproduced various temporal patterns that only differed structurally in order to test the hypothesis that patterns more readily inducing an internal clock will give rise to more accurate percepts. In Experiment 2, clock induction is manipulated experimentally to test the clock notion more directly. Experiment 3 tests the coding portion of the model by correlating theoretical complexity of temporal patterns based on the coding model with complexity judgments. The experiments yield data that support the theoretical ideas.

scholarly journals Time perception and age

2016 ◽  
Vol 74 (4) ◽  
pp. 299-302 ◽  
Author(s):  
Vanessa Fernanda Moreira Ferreira ◽  
Gabriel Pina Paiva ◽  
Natália Prando ◽  
Carla Renata Graça ◽  
João Aris Kouyoumdjian
Keyword(s):  
Time Perception ◽  
Healthy Subjects ◽  
Age Groups ◽  
Internal Clock ◽  
Time Interval ◽  
Comparison Test ◽  
Clock System ◽  
Multiple Comparison Test ◽  
The Common ◽  
Bonferroni Multiple Comparison Test

ABSTRACT Our internal clock system is predominantly dopaminergic, but memory is predominantly cholinergic. Here, we examined the common sensibility encapsulated in the statement: “time goes faster as we get older”. Objective To measure a 2 min time interval, counted mentally in subjects of different age groups. Method 233 healthy subjects (129 women) were divided into three age groups: G1, 15-29 years; G2, 30-49 years; and G3, 50-89 years. Subjects were asked to close their eyes and mentally count the passing of 120 s. Results The elapsed times were: G1, mean = 114.9 ± 35 s; G2, mean = 96.0 ± 34.3 s; G3, mean = 86.6 ± 34.9 s. The ANOVA-Bonferroni multiple comparison test showed that G3 and G1 results were significantly different (P < 0.001). Conclusion Mental calculations of 120 s were shortened by an average of 24.6% (28.3 s) in individuals over age 50 years compared to individuals under age 30 years.

scholarly journals The ages of zone of proximal development for retrospective time assessment and anticipation of time event

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
G.V. Portnova ◽  
A. B. Rebreikina ◽  
O.V. Martynova
Keyword(s):  
Time Perception ◽  
Neuropsychological Assessment ◽  
Time Estimation ◽  
Zone Of Proximal Development ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Attention And Memory ◽  
Proximal Development ◽  
Time Intervals ◽  
Intelligence Scale ◽  
Time Assessment

AbstractWe aimed to investigate the ability of children aged 5–14 years old (preschoolers, primary schoolers, and preteens) to assess and anticipate time intervals. 287 Russian children aged 5–14 years old and 26 adults of control group participated in our study. The neuropsychological assessment, Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children and a battery of time-related tests were applied. All groups of children overestimated the event’s duration, although the accuracy of the second estimations increased among the participants aged 6–8 years after a prompt was offered. A zone of proximal development for time anticipation task was detected for children aged 9-11 years, when the prompt could significantly improve the accuracy of time perception. The participants overestimated the duration of both upcoming and past events, with the degree of overestimation being found to be negatively correlated with age. Further, a higher degree of accuracy in terms of time estimation was found to be correlated with higher scores on the attention and memory tests, and accuracy of time anticipation was associated with scores of praxis test.

scholarly journals Logarithmic Axis Graphs Distort Lay Judgment

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
William Ryan ◽  
Ellen Riemke Katrien Evers
Keyword(s):  
Logarithmic Scale ◽  
Linear Scale ◽  
Policy Interventions ◽  
Linear Graphs

COVID-19 data is often presented using graphs with either a linear or logarithmic scale. Given the importance of this information, understanding how choice of scale changes interpretations is critical. To test this, we presented laypeople with the same data plotted using differing scales. We found that graphs with a logarithmic, as opposed to linear, scale resulted in laypeople making less accurate predictions of growth, viewing COVID-19 as less dangerous, and expressing both less support for policy interventions and less intention to take personal actions to combat COVID-19. Education reduces, but does not eliminate these effects. These results suggest that public communications should use logarithmic graphs only when necessary, and such graphs should be presented alongside education and linear graphs of the same data whenever possible.

Method for Measuring the Rate of Subjective Time

1967 ◽  
Vol 24 (3_suppl) ◽  
pp. 1235-1240 ◽  
Author(s):  
James J. McGrath ◽  
James F. O'Hanlon
Keyword(s):  
Individual Differences ◽  
Real Time ◽  
Linear Function ◽  
Time Perception ◽  
Test Session ◽  
Subjective Time ◽  
Systematic Effect ◽  
Standard Interval

A method was developed for measuring rate of subjective time ( RST). Subjective time ( T) was recorded in subjects making a series of contiguous estimations of a standard interval of time. The results showed that T generally increased as a linear function of real time ( t). RST was measured by describing T as a linear function of t and by differentiating that function in respect to t. Individual differences in RST were large and stable within a test session. The differences were reliable from one session to the next. Within the range studied (1 to 10 min.) the duration of the standard interval had no systematic effect upon RSTs. And, RSTs were related in the appropriate direction to traditional measures of time perception. It was concluded that the RST is a useful measure for research on time perception.

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