Why Can't We Consciously Select What Our Brain Chooses to Remember?

Memory, a crucial aspect of human cognition, can often feel like a mysterious and uncontrollable force. Our brains decide what to retain and what to discard in a sometimes random and somewhat enigmatic process. However, this does not mean we are entirely at the mercy of our subconscious. In this article, we explore the complexities of memory manipulation, the influence of subconscious mind, and the potential for individuals to take control of their own memories.

Memory as a Psychological Process

From a biological standpoint, our memories are formed through a complex interplay of factors, including our conscious thought processes and the subconscious actions of our brain during sleep. Sleep is often referred to as the 'defragmentation' of our mind, where the brain consolidates short-term memories into long-term ones. This process involves a combination of encoding, consolidation, and retrieval, which are all influenced by our subconscious mind.

How Human Memory Functions

The subject of human memory remains largely a mystery. We do not fully understand how it forms, how it can be fixed, or even its capacity. However, what we do know is that our memories are deeply intertwined with our personal experiences and the sensory inputs that shape them. Even simple sensory cues, like the smell of something familiar, can trigger vivid memories. This connection between sensory input and memory is a key aspect of how our brain associates and recalls experiences.

The Role of Thoughts in Memory Manipulation

While we cannot exercise total control over our memories, we can significantly influence them. Thoughts and emotions play a crucial role in how memories are stored and later recalled. For instance, if a child falls and their parent reassures them that it’s okay, the child’s memory of the fall is likely to become less frightening and more neutral. This example illustrates how thoughts can alter and shape our memory.

Manipulating Memories: An Interactive Process

Memory manipulation is not a one-time event but an ongoing process. By consciously changing our thoughts related to a particular memory, we can twist and alter that memory over time. This process can lead to a complete reevaluation of past events. For instance, historical events can be manipulated by the collective memory of a society, leading to a distorted version of history. A famous example involves the relationship between the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany during WWII. Many people have a misunderstanding that the Soviet Union only formed an alliance with the Allies after the invasion by Nazi Germany. However, the real story is more complex, with the Soviet Union initially allying with Germany before ultimately turning against them.

Manipulating Personal Memories

Personal memories can also be manipulated by changing our thoughts about them. This process is not as straightforward as simply forgetting about an event, but rather involves restructuring the details and emotions associated with the memory. For example, if your sister misinterpreted your mother’s conversations, leading to a false belief about her religious affiliation, you can work to reframe this memory by introducing new perspectives and facts. By questioning and re-evaluating your memories, you can alter their meaning and accuracy.

Examples of Memory Manipulation

1. **World War II and the Soviet Union:** The narrative that the Soviet Union was an ally to the Allies in WWII has been significantly altered in popular memory. The true story includes the Soviet Union's initial cooperation with Nazi Germany, which is often overlooked due to the subsequent alliance against them.

2. **Iran’s King Before 1979:** The portrayal of Iran’s pre-1979 king as a brutal tyrant is a misinformation campaign. In reality, he was a lenient ruler who made decisions with the well-being of his people in mind. This romanticized version has overshadowed the more nuanced reality.

Conclusion

While our brains have an inherent mechanism for defragmenting and consolidating memories, we also possess the ability to actively manipulate and reshape our memories. By understanding the psychological and neurological processes behind memory formation and manipulation, we can gain more control over our cognitive landscape. Whether it's revising historical accounts or personal experiences, the key lies in recognizing the power of our thoughts and actively engaging with our memories.