It’s a common claim: the world is changing faster than ever, and those who don’t adapt will be left behind. Innovations come at a rapid pace, and technological breakthroughs seem to constantly upend how we live and work. But how real is this perceived speed? Is the world truly moving faster, or is speed largely a matter of perception?

Take, for example, the fly. This creature processes visual information at a speed of roughly 250 frames per second, while humans perceive an average of around 60 frames per second. To a fly, our human world appears slow and predictable. Where we see rapid movement, the fly experiences it as a slow, manageable event that’s easy to avoid. This example shows that speed isn’t universal; it’s heavily influenced by how you perceive and process information. Perhaps the same applies to our sense of “acceleration” in daily life.

Is Change Actually Faster, or Does It Just Seem That Way?

The feeling that everything around us is accelerating is fueled by constant access to information through social media, news, and work. Technological trends, such as artificial intelligence or digitalization, receive a lot of attention, but the core question remains: is the world truly changing faster, or do we only experience it that way because we have greater visibility into these changes?

Historically, earlier periods of transformation, like the Industrial Revolution or the advent of electricity, were just as disruptive. The difference now is that the speed of information transfer creates the illusion that changes occur more quickly than they actually do.

Human Brainpower: A Constant

While technology keeps accelerating, our brains remain bound to human speed. Our processing capacity and creative thinking abilities haven’t changed much compared to previous generations. This isn’t a weakness—it’s a strength. Innovation requires reflection, depth, and mental space—qualities that thrive in an environment where we take the time to think deliberately.

Consider it akin to constructing a complex building. Tools and machines can speed up the physical work, but the conceptual and creative process still relies on human focus and insight. True innovation doesn’t come from working faster; it comes from thinking better.

Speed or Quality?

The real question isn’t just whether the world is changing faster, but whether speed is always desirable. Innovation isn’t about making the quickest leaps—it’s about achieving meaningful, sustainable progress. Striking a balance between pace and depth ensures that we not only respond to change but also shape it intentionally.

What Do You Think?

Are we experiencing an actual acceleration, or is speed mostly a matter of perception?

Maarten Meijer — an Imaginologist. A conceptual thinker who moves between creativity, systems and strategy. I design visions, frameworks and futures that challenge the expected and open new possibilities.

My mission is simple: To initiate creation.
By disrupting fixed patterns, I help people think differently — to imagine what could be, and make it real.