Memories of Things Unseen,Article Critique Example

The article “Memories of Things Unseen” (2004) by Elizabeth F. Loftus explores the idea that human memory is both malleable and fallible. Throughout the article, Loftus makes claims about the nature of human memory, particularly in regard to the uncertainty and unreliability that she believes to be an inherent quality of memory. Loftus argues that memory can not only be modulated by the introduction of new information, but completely false memories can be implanted in individuals so strongly that they are believed to be fact. To support these assertions, Loftus refers to a number of scientific studies and research. For example, to support her claim that false memories can be wilfully implanted into subjects, Loftus cites a study undertaken by “memory investigators” in the 1990’s which showed that “After being fed suggestive information that ostensibly came from their relatives, a significant minority of subjects came to accept all or part of the suggestion and claimed it as their own experience” (Loftus, 2004, p. 145). This forms a clear example of false-memory.

Loftus also argues that false memories and true memories can sometimes be indistinguishable from an emotional point of view. The conclusion that is reached in the article is, surprisingly, that emotional response can not be regarded as an indication of the truth of falsity of a memory. Loftus writes that “a memory report accompanied by strong emotion is not good evidence that the memory report reflects a genuine experience” (Loftus, 2004, p. 147). As such, Loftus undermines the usual assumptions that most of us make regarding the connection between emotional and actual experience.

When Loftus concludes that ‘there is now ample evidence that individuals can be led to belive that they experienced things that never happened” (Loftus,2004, p. 147) , the assertion is based on extensive body of scientific research. The startling end-result of Loftus’ article and inquiry into the nature of human memory is that human memory is both faulty and malleable. Also that human memory can be impacted not only by information but by misinformation a deliberate lies.

Reference

Loftus, Elizabeth. (2004) “Memories of Things Unseen.” Current Directions in Psychological Science. Volume 13; Number 4. p. 145-147.