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A Mathematical Model of Mental Time

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Working from the concepts espoused by Ernst Mach and a previously developed mathematical theory of mental processes, we have introduced mathematical definitions of the duration of mental time intervals, initially for the perception (experiencing) of an individual event, and then for the general case, i.e., for the perception (experiencing) of sequences of events. The relationship between mental time and the duration of the corresponding interval of physical time was studied. The link between mental time and the perception of time was addressed (for two cases: “long” and “short” intervals). Theoretical formulas are compared with the results of experimental measurements. Process time is defined, and this can be employed in particular as a measure of work. The time reversal effect described in Mach’s works is analyzed and modeled.

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Correspondence to A. V. Glasko.

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Translated from Zhurnal Vysshei Nervnoi Deyatel’nosti imeni I. P. Pavlova, Vol. 64, No. 4, pp. 388–400, July–August, 2014.

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Glasko, A.V., Sadykhova, L.G. A Mathematical Model of Mental Time. Neurosci Behav Physi 46, 168–177 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11055-015-0214-5

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