Microtalous

Microtalous is a term that has appeared in speculative fiction and theoretical discussions, primarily relating to concepts of time and consciousness. It is not a recognized scientific or philosophical term with a standard definition. In its most common usage, microtalous refers to an extremely small, fundamental unit or particle of time. This concept often implies that time is not a smooth, continuous flow but rather is quantized, similar to how energy is quantized in quantum mechanics.

The idea of microtalous suggests that any experience, thought, or event is composed of a series of these discrete temporal units. This has led to various hypothetical implications. For instance, some theories propose that consciousness might operate by processing these microtalous units sequentially, and that the perception of a continuous present is an illusion created by the rapid succession of these fundamental time fragments. Other discussions have explored the possibility of manipulating or traveling through time by interacting with these microtalous units, though these remain purely fictional or highly speculative.

The term itself is likely a portmanteau, possibly combining "micro" (small) with a derivative of "talus" (a slope or falling body) or "tal" (a suffix indicating a unit or entity). Its prevalence is mostly limited to niche online communities and creative works, where it serves as a conceptual tool for exploring the nature of time and subjective experience. There is no empirical evidence or established scientific framework to support the existence of microtalous.