When is now in a distributed system? Animated motion (could) set the present in brain networks

TL;DR

This paper explores how delayed neural connections in the brain influence the perception of the present moment, proposing that direct environmental contact and movement are essential for an updated sense of 'now' in brain networks.

Contribution

It introduces a theoretical framework linking delayed brain connectivity to the perception of the present, supported by a galvanic vestibular stimulation experiment.

Findings

Delayed brain connections affect the perception of 'now'.

Movement and environmental contact are crucial for updating the brain's time sense.

Experimental results support the hypothesis that vestibular stimulation influences temporal perception.

Abstract

Our brains are viewed as interconnected distributed systems. The connections between distant areas in the brain are significantly delayed. How to obtained now in such networks with delayed interconnections? We aim to show that delayed communication and interconnectedness of the brain impose an interaction with the environment, assuming that such an access to now, which we label t-present, is of use for this system. It is conjectured that for any sensory, motor or cognitive functions to work efficiently an updated sort of time origin is required, and we claim that it is uniquely given by a direct contact with the physical environment. To get such contact autonomously any movement is required, be it originating in the motion of sensory systems or in goal directed movements. Some limit cases are identified and discussed. Next, several testable situations are envisioned and available studies in favor of the main theoretical hypothesis are shortly reviewed. Finally, as a proof of concept, an experimental study employing galvanic vestibular stimulation is presented and discussed.