Memory or Reality?

By C. Schall Gontijo

Memory is undoubtedly related to perception. The content we perceive is restored and reconstructed in memory, even if both are often considered to be separate and independent cognitive capacities. This article will explore how memories can become distorted over time and how this impacts personal identity and self-perception. It will also discuss the influence of technology on preservation and alteration, as well as offer strategies for coping with memory discrepancies.


Memory is the power to retain and recall information and past experiences. It helps us to frame our understanding of the past and our behaviour within the present, as well as to better interpret the world around us. To explain it simply: the human brain reshapes itself with each memory. The gaps between our brain cells, called synapses, are responsible for the communication between our neurons. Then, a part of our brain called the hippocampus can communicate with our cortex and literally change the brain’s physical wiring to retrieve information. However, it is important to notice that emotions are also inherently linked to and can influence cognitive skills and therefore, enhance the subjective vividness of the memory through the sense of reliving the emotional event. This process can determine how strong a memory is perceived at retrieval.


For example, just like in the children’s game where a message is whispered from person to person and becomes increasingly garbled, repeated retellings of a memory can alter the details, leading to significant distortions. This illustrates how memory is not a perfect record of past events but rather a reconstructive process susceptible to various influences. A renowned psychologist, Elizabeth Loftus, has conducted extensive research on memory distortion, particularly focusing on the creation of false memories and her studies have revealed people's memories could be altered when exposed to misleading information after an event. Loftus's research also showed that it is possible to implant entirely false memories in individuals. In one study, participants were given a booklet containing several real childhood events provided by their families and one fabricated event about getting lost in a shopping mall. Despite the event being false, about 25% of participants later recalled and even elaborated on the false memory as if it had genuinely happened. Stress can affect the type of memories we form as well. If we are stressed during an event, we may have more difficulty accurately remembering the details of the event later. Another factor to be considered is time, that may cause information stored in short term memory and never revisited to be forgotten.


It then becomes clear that memory distortion can play a crucial role in real life scenarios. For example, in 1692, the Salem Witch Trials led to the execution of 20 people based on accusations of witchcraft. The accusations were fueled by mass hysteria and false memories, often elicited through intense questioning and suggestive interrogation. The trials underscored how collective memory distortion and social pressure can lead to tragic consequences.


Furthermore, individual memory assumes a fundamental part in the improvement of individual identity. Our memories provide us with a sense of continuity, allowing us to connect our past experiences with our present selves and anticipate our future. They help us to create a narrative of our lives, which shapes our understanding of who we are , what we value and where we are headed. Additionally, distorted memories can either inflate or deflate self-esteem. Remembering oneself as more successful or competent than in reality can lead to overconfidence, while false memories of failures or inadequacies can result in lowered self-esteem and increased self-doubt.


This brings us to the issue raised due to technology. The constant multitasking, rapid information processing, and constant distractions can lead to decreased attention span, memory problems, and difficulty with cognitive functions. There is also the ease in which digital memories can be altered and how that can have negative implications in real life. Digital memories, such as photos and videos, offer high accuracy and consistency but can be manipulated and are vulnerable to data loss. Human recollection, though inherently subjective and prone to distortion over time, is flexible and adaptive, influenced by emotions and social interactions. Combining digital records with human memory can enhance accuracy, providing a balanced approach to understanding and verifying past events. Both digital and human memories have strengths and weaknesses that must be considered, particularly in contexts requiring high reliability, such as legal proceedings.


Therefore, using practices such as mindfulness can help us to keep ourselves grounded and better perceive our memories. It can even prevent our brains from deteriorating during high periods of stress, keeping our bodies healthier. To verify memories, consider keeping a detailed journal, recording events as they happen to preserve accuracy over time. Discuss memories with others who were present to gain different perspectives and confirm details.
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In conclusion, the complex relationship between memory and reality highlights how memories can be distorted by various factors such as suggestion, time, and emotional context. By acknowledging the fallibility of memory, individuals can seek truth and understanding in their personal histories. Seeking verification through diverse perspectives, documentation, and introspection can also foster a more accurate and cohesive narrative of our lives. This approach not only promotes personal growth but also contributes to clearer communication and healthier relationships based on shared and validated experiences.