The Psychology of Memory

3 Credits · Level: Undergraduate

Memory is characterized both by extraordinary powers and by puzzling limitations. Examples of these extremes can be seen in all of us; we recall details of events experienced in childhood, yet find ourselves unable to think of the single item for which we drove to the grocery store. Other extremes of memory are witnessed only in unusual individuals; mnemonists with apparently limitless photographic memories stand in sharp contrast to individuals who suffer from amnesia so severe that they have forgotten who they are. Everyday we keep track if our own autobiographies and our plans for the future. This course explores such powers and limitations, and considers critically what they reveal about the nature of human memory. Among the topics considered are mnemonists, techniques for improving memory, amnesia, the development and aging of memory in the individual, autobiographical memory and self, eye witness testimony, trauma, and the effects of brain damage on memory. The course will be particularly focused on how memory is experienced in real world contexts. The course will also include sections on how memory and memory disorders are portrayed in the media and will require reviewing and critiquing popular books and movies (e.g. Memento (written by a GU alumnus)). The course is conducted as a seminar and workshop. Students read and lead discussions of the assigned articles, and, working either alone or as part of a group, they design and conduct their own studies of memory.