'Relation between the psychological and thermodynamic arrows of time'

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the paper 'Relation between the psychological and thermodynamic arrows of time' from arXiv, which explores the nature of time perception and its relation to memory. The author questions the concept of 'now' within the framework of the block universe theory, pondering whether individuals exist as multiple versions across time or as a single entity experiencing time's illusion. The conversation highlights the inadequacies of the block universe model in explaining the subjective experience of time.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of block universe theory
  • Familiarity with psychological concepts of time perception
  • Knowledge of thermodynamics and its relation to time
  • Basic grasp of memory functions and their impact on perception
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  • Research the implications of block universe theory on time perception
  • Explore psychological studies on the sensation of 'now'
  • Investigate the relationship between thermodynamics and psychological time
  • Examine alternative theories of time beyond the block universe model
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Philosophers, cognitive scientists, and anyone interested in the intersection of psychology and physics regarding the nature of time.

The thinker
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I recently came across the paper 'Relation between the psychological and thermodynamic arrows of time' (arXiv).

Their argument makes sense to me, however their concept doesn't seem to address what 'now' is.

If each person exists in an unchanging state in the block universe, and the flow of time is an illusion caused by the way memory functions, then how exactly does this sensation of 'now' work? Are there an infinite number of me's at every point in time, all experiencing their own now? Or is there one me that 'travels' though the block universe, experiencing the illusion of time? And what is it that is experiencing this illusion of movement?
 
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The block universe is not a very helpful concept in my opinion.
 

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