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Heat transfer, entropy and time perception: Toward finding a possible relation between subjective and objective time
1Center for Vision Research (CVR), York University, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto M3J 1P3, Canada; Vision: Science to Applications (VISTA) Program, York University, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto, ON, Canada; Iranian Neuro-wave Lab., Branch of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran.
Medical Hypotheses
|December 30, 2018
Summary
This study proposes a thermodynamic framework to explain subjective and objective time. It suggests that differences in entropy (dS) between the universe and the brain create distinct perceptions of time.
Area of Science:
- Physics
- Psychology
- Thermodynamics
Background:
- The relationship between subjective and objective time perception remains unclear.
- Thermodynamic entropy is a key factor in defining the arrow of time in physical systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a unified thermodynamic framework for understanding subjective and objective time.
- To explore the role of thermodynamic entropy in the distinct timing systems of the universe and the brain.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing thermodynamic entropy (dS) as a parameter to define the arrow of time.
- Comparing the universe as a closed system with the brain as an open thermodynamic system.
- Analyzing heat transfer (dQ) and entropy changes (dS) in both systems.
Main Results:
- The universe, as a closed system, exhibits positive dS, leading to an irreversible arrow of time with consistent time units.
- The brain, as an open system, can have negative dQ and dS, resulting in a reversible timing system with variable time units.
- This thermodynamic mismatch theoretically explains discrepancies between brain and universal time.
Conclusions:
- Thermodynamic entropy provides a novel framework for reconciling subjective and objective time.
- The open nature of the brain's thermodynamic system is crucial for its unique temporal processing.
- Further research is warranted to explore the implications of this thermodynamic mismatch on cognition and perception.
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