How often do we find ourselves certain of a memory, only to later find out that it never actually happened? Have we just imagined it, or have we confused it with a similar experience? Why do these ‘errors of memory’ happen?

Our memories are not like perfect video recordings; they are more like a puzzle that our brain puts together. When we remember something, our brain retrieves information from different parts of the brain, and then pieces it all together to create a cohesive memory. However, sometimes our brain can make mistakes when putting the pieces together, leading to errors of memory.

There are a number of factors that can contribute to errors of memory, including: The passage of time: memories can fade over time, making them less accurate; misleading information: if we encounter new information that contradicts our memory, we may be more likely to believe the new information, even if it is incorrect; and our emotions: our emotions can influence our memories, making us more likely to remember things that are consistent with our current emotional state.

Errors of memory can have a significant impact on our lives. They can lead to misunderstandings, conflict, and even legal problems. However, by understanding the factors that can contribute to errors of memory, we can take steps to reduce their impact on our lives.