specious present

The specious present refers to the brief moment in which our consciousness perceives time as a single, continuous experience. It’s the window of time our mind naturally uses to integrate various sensory inputs—like sights, sounds, and sensations—so they feel connected and coherent. For example, when listening to music or watching a moving object, your brain combines fleeting impressions into a seamless flow, usually lasting a few seconds. This concept highlights how our perception of present time isn’t an instant but a slightly extended period that allows us to experience the world smoothly and meaningfully.