Marc Wittmann

Overview

Felt Time by Marc Wittmann explores the concept of time perception and its impact on our daily lives. Wittmann, a researcher and philosopher, argues that our subjective experience of time goes beyond the ticking of a clock. He delves into the psychology of time perception and presents a compelling case for the relativity of time. By challenging the conventional notion of time as a linear progression, Wittmann opens up new insights into how we experience and understand the passing of time.

Key Points / Ideas

1. Time as a subjective experience: Wittmann asserts that time is not an objective entity but a deeply personal and subjective experience. He suggests that our perception of time depends on various factors, including our emotional state, attention, and memory.

2. The influence of timing: The author explores the idea that our experience of time is shaped by the timing of events and our ability to be present in the moment. He suggests that by aligning our actions with the natural rhythms of our bodies and the world around us, we can enhance our experience of time.

3. Time and emotion: Wittmann emphasizes the connection between time and our emotions. He argues that our emotional state can distort our perception of time, leading to instances where time seems to either speed up or slow down.

4. Temporal elasticity: Wittmann introduces the concept of "temporal elasticity," which refers to our ability to expand or contract our subjective experience of time. He explores how practices such as mindfulness and meditation can help individuals gain control over their perception of time.

5. Cultural and technological influences: The author discusses the impact of culture and technology on our perception of time. He explores how different cultures have varying attitudes towards time, and how technological advancements, particularly the rise of social media and constant connectivity, have altered our perception of time.

Significant Evidence

Wittmann supports his arguments with a combination of scientific research, psychological experiments, and philosophical reflections. He references studies that reveal how emotions can distort our perception of time, such as experiments where participants estimated the duration of a pleasant or unpleasant experience. He also explores neurological findings on the brain mechanisms involved in time perception.

Furthermore, Wittmann draws on historical and cultural examples to illustrate how different societies have approached and conceptualized time. He examines ancient cultures that followed lunar calendars, contrasting them with modern societies driven by precise clock time. He also discusses how our obsession with multitasking and constant connectivity has led to a sense of time pressure and fragmentation.

Conclusion

Felt Time challenges our traditional understanding of time and offers a fresh perspective on how we experience and perceive it. Wittmann's exploration of time as a subjective experience and the influence of timing, emotions, and cultural factors provides readers with new insights into their own relationship with time. The book encourages readers to question their preconceived notions of time and invites them to reflect on their own subjective experiences. For those interested in delving deeper into the topic, Wittmann's thoughtful analysis sets a solid foundation for further exploration. Other related books on time perception and philosophy, such as The Time Paradox by Philip Zimbardo and The Order of Time by Carlo Rovelli, can further deepen one's understanding of this intriguing subject.