1.1 Introduction
Time is defined as the continuous progression of existence and events from the past through the present to the future. It is both a measurable phenomenon and a concept that shapes human perception, social organization, and cultural understanding (Zerubavel, 1982). Throughout history, societies have developed diverse ways of conceptualizing, measuring, and experiencing time, reflecting their priorities, technologies, and philosophical outlooks.
In ancient eras, time is largely cyclical, intertwined with natural rhythms, astronomical observations, and spiritual practices. Civilizations such as the Egyptians, Babylonians, and Mayans structured their calendars and daily routines according to the movements of celestial bodies, agricultural cycles, and religious festivals (Couprie, 2016). These societies often emphasize qualitative experiences of time, where moments carry symbolic meaning, and temporal order is closely connected to societal harmony and cosmic understanding (Hutton, 2012).
This chapter will address the background information that motivated this study, the challenges that prompted it, its aim, and its objectives as a preface to subsequent sections of the study. Additional factors include the study's significance, scope, limitations, research questions, and the definition of technical terms.
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