What's happened
Daylight saving time ends this weekend in many regions, with clocks set back an hour. New Stanford research supports adopting permanent standard time, citing health benefits linked to circadian rhythm alignment. The change impacts sleep, health, and international coordination, especially between Europe, North America, and Israel.
What's behind the headline?
The story underscores the health implications of daylight saving time, emphasizing that the biannual clock changes disrupt the circadian rhythm, leading to increased risks of accidents and health issues. Stanford's research advocates for permanent standard time, aligning more closely with natural sunlight patterns and human biology. This shift could reduce health risks and improve overall well-being. The debate over permanent daylight saving time persists, with some regions favoring lighter evenings for economic or social reasons, but the scientific consensus favors stability for health. The story also highlights the geopolitical complexity, with different countries and regions adopting varying policies, reflecting diverse priorities and cultural considerations. Ultimately, the push for a unified, year-round time policy aims to mitigate the negative effects of clock changes and promote public health.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that new Stanford research finds switching clocks twice a year is detrimental to health, with permanent standard time being slightly better due to alignment with the sun and circadian rhythms. The article quotes Jamie Zeitzer, emphasizing that disruptions impair organ systems like immune function and metabolism. AP News and other sources detail the historical context and current practices across countries, noting that most nations do not observe daylight saving time and that the US and Europe have different transition dates. The Times of Israel highlights Israel's specific schedule and political debates surrounding time changes, while the UK-based articles discuss public opinion and historical origins. Contrasting opinions are minimal, but some regions, like Jordan and Turkey, have adopted permanent daylight saving time, citing practical benefits, whereas scientific evidence consistently supports the health advantages of fixed standard time.
How we got here
The twice-yearly clock changes originated in the early 20th century, primarily during wartime, to conserve energy. Most countries now keep a fixed time year-round, but some regions still observe seasonal shifts. Scientific studies, including Stanford's, suggest that the disruption caused by switching clocks harms health by misaligning the body's internal clock, or circadian rhythm, which regulates sleep, metabolism, and other vital functions.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Are Some Middle Eastern Countries Changing Clocks and Others Not?
Many Middle Eastern countries are adjusting their clocks differently this year, with some keeping their time unchanged and others adopting permanent daylight saving time. This raises questions about regional stability, political motives, and energy policies. Why do these differences exist, and what do they mean for the region? Below, we explore the key reasons behind these time policy choices and what they could indicate about regional dynamics.
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When Does Daylight Saving Time End This Year?
Daylight saving time ends this Sunday at 2 a.m., when clocks are set back an hour. This change affects sleep, health, and international schedules. Many wonder whether to keep permanent standard time or daylight saving, and how the end of DST impacts daily life. Below, we answer common questions about this biannual clock change and what it means for you.
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What Are the Health Benefits of Ending Daylight Saving Time? Should We Keep Standard Time Forever?
As daylight saving time ends this weekend, many are wondering about the health impacts of this change. Recent research from Stanford highlights the benefits of sticking to permanent standard time, which aligns better with our natural circadian rhythms. But what does this mean for your health, sleep, and daily routines? Below, we explore the key questions about ending daylight saving time and whether a permanent switch could be better for everyone.
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How Does Ending Daylight Saving Time Impact Our Health and Daily Routines?
As daylight saving time ends, many wonder what this change means for health, safety, and international coordination. Recent research suggests that stopping the clock changes could benefit our circadian rhythms and overall well-being. But what are the specific effects, and how are different countries responding? Below, we explore common questions about the end of daylight saving time and what it means for you and the world.
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Stanford University, officially Leland Stanford Junior University, is a private research university in Stanford, California. Stanford is ranked among the top five universities in the world in major education publications.
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