Inner Cosmos with David Eagleman
Ep70 "Why do our memories drift? Part 1: The War of the Ghosts"
Aug 5, 2024
David Eagleman, a renowned neuroscientist and expert in human memory and cognition, takes listeners on a thought-provoking journey into the nature of memory. He discusses how recollections, like medieval art of lions, can be distorted over time and shaped by cultural influences. The podcast dives into concepts like flashbulb memories and misinformation, revealing the role of external factors in altering our perceptions of significant events. Through compelling case studies, Eagleman unpacks the flawed yet fascinating dynamics of memory and its impact on our identities.
33:52
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Quick takeaways
- Medieval European artists depicted lions inaccurately due to limited experiences, mirroring how personal memories can distort with retelling.
- Frederick Bartlett's study using 'The War of the Ghosts' demonstrates that memories are reconstructed based on cultural context and personal narratives.
Deep dives
Medieval Lions and Memory Distortion
The discussion begins with a fascinating observation about medieval European art, specifically how artists portrayed lions. Despite their advancements in depicting human figures and architectural elements, lions appeared with exaggerated and inaccurate features, reflecting the artists' lack of direct experience with these animals. This phenomenon parallels how human memory operates, likening it to the game of telephone, where details become distorted over time and through retellings. The artist's challenge to represent something never seen in reality mirrors the complexities of how personal memories are reshaped by what we know and believe, leading to inaccuracies.
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