I have put together my ideas and collated here:

The Elasticity of Time Perception: A Framework on Consciousness, Curiosity, and the Universe

Introduction

This document presents an original framework exploring the interconnectedness of time perception, consciousness, curiosity, and the origins of the universe. The hypothesis suggests that consciousness plays a fundamental role in shaping our reality, and that the perception of time is not fixed but elastic, influenced by the depth of our awareness and engagement with the present moment. Rooted in reflections on the nature of the Big Bang, entropy, and human experience, this theory proposes new perspectives on how reality itself may be constructed.

1.Curiosity and the Birth of the Universe

The framework posits that before the Big Bang, the universe existed in a state of absolute nothingness—an equilibrium where neither time nor space existed. The Big Bang represents the moment when a fundamental 'curiosity' emerged, disrupting this equilibrium and catalyzing the creation of time, space, and matter.

In this context, curiosity is seen not merely as a human trait but as a universal force driving the evolution of complexity and consciousness. This perspective suggests that the true nature of the universe is still nothingness, and all perceived reality is a manifestation of this primal curiosity seeking to explore itself. Consciousness, therefore, is an extension of this universal force, with human awareness being a localized expression of a cosmic phenomenon.

2. Consciousness as a Time-Warping Mechanism

Building on this, the hypothesis suggests that consciousness can warp the perception of time. While physics governs the objective flow of time, human experience reveals that time is elastic. Moments of deep focus, mindfulness, or emotional intensity can stretch or compress our perception of time. This elasticity is not a byproduct of external events but a direct result of how consciousness interacts with reality.

Mindfulness, in particular, is seen as a tool to slow down the perception of time. By disaggregating sensory inputs and focusing on individual experiences, the mind can deepen its engagement with the present, making seconds feel like minutes. Conversely, a lack of awareness leads to the aggregation of experiences, causing time to feel as though it passes quickly.

3. Entropy, Time, and Human Experience

Entropy—the tendency of systems to move towards disorder—is often linked to the arrow of time in physics. However, this framework proposes that entropy is not just a physical phenomenon but also a cognitive one. As we accumulate experiences, our minds tend to generalize and simplify, creating a sense of time moving faster as we age.

By consciously resisting this cognitive entropy through curiosity and mindfulness, we can slow down our perception of time. This suggests that time perception is both a reflection of the universe's physical laws and a product of our mental engagement with reality.


4. Aggregation vs. Disaggregation of Sensory Inputs
A core concept in this framework is the aggregation and disaggregation of sensory inputs. In everyday life, our brains tend to aggregate experiences for efficiency, leading to a compressed perception of time. However, by disaggregating these inputs—paying close attention to individual sensory details—we can expand our experience of time.

This principle underlies practices like mindfulness and meditation, where the deliberate focus on the present moment slows down time perception. It also explains why new and novel experiences feel longer, as the brain is forced to process more information in detail.

Conclusion

This framework proposes that consciousness, curiosity, and time perception are deeply intertwined, with the potential to reshape our understanding of reality. By exploring how these elements interact, we can gain new insights into the nature of the universe and our place within it. This theory invites further exploration and dialogue, with the hope of uncovering new dimensions of human experience.

Would really appreciate some feedback on this, let me know what you think