A Sampling of the Past is how we Perceive Present and Future

As humans, we experience the world as we sample the past. Our perception is based on those experiences. We also use comparison in how we judge the present. Our brain typically looks to the past to compare because it is easier for the brain. There have been multiple studies that have pointed to this.

An example of this is why earlier videos games feel they don’t control well when returning. For example, some 3d games like grand theft auto or metal gear solid felt great at the time. Today, we have a different standard to how 3d games control. This new experience in our brain now affects how we see the game when we play them again. Our perception is affected by the amount of sampling. Another good example is it isn’t about the absolute magnitude of money you make; it’s about what you made in the past.

When returning to the past of the game, our frame of reference has changed. Our brains don’t remember what happens precisely, only the keys and emotions like we enjoyed the game. We typically reweave the memory when we are thinking about it. When returning to a game, controls feel inadequate compared to our memory. The controls are right in front of us; we can’t deny they don’t feel right. It’s because our new experiences give our brains something to compare.