How Does Memory Work and Not Work?

Explore the fascinating science of human memory through expert insights from Harvard researchers in this 29-minute podcast episode. Discover how memory serves as the foundation of our identity, learning capacity, and survival instincts, while simultaneously examining its inherent flaws and susceptibility to distortion. Learn from science researcher Dan Schacter, Alzheimer's expert Margaret O'Connor, and neuroscientist Venki Murthy as they explain the mechanisms behind memory formation, the reasons why we often misremember events or create false memories entirely, and evidence-based strategies for improving memory function. Gain a comprehensive understanding of memory's dual nature as both a reliable cognitive tool and a surprisingly malleable process that can be influenced by various factors.