This paper describes two different and opposing subjective perceptions of time: duration and timelessness. Duration is used here to describe the concept that objects may change as time passes, although in essence they remain the same. Timelessness occurs when an object or a person is perceived as remaining in a permanent, unchanging state as time passes. This attitude is epitomized by the Trobriand Islanders, who believe that objects do not change as time passes. If they observe a change in an object then they assume that the old

object no longer exists and a new object has taken its place. A new, entirely unrelated name is given to this new object.