Temporal tolerance circumscribed

Abstract

Chen's topological theory of perceptual organization includes the idea that equivalences in spatial organization and the organization of subjective experiences of time may be derived by means of common expression in terms of topological tolerance spaces. A critique is offered of some foundational concepts related to Chen's suggested organization of subjective time, culminating in the proposal that the organization of time may be best considered with reference to some medium or organization, in this instance the dynamic patterning of nervous system activity. Direct equivalences are then identified between dynamic nervous system activity correlated with spatial and temporal organization. These nevertheless raise the question of whether we need to consider organization of subjective temporal experiences in order to evaluate the idea that variations in process timing is of itself a common moder of expression for spatial and temporal organization.