We have studied countless concepts and read numerous stories throughout this semester, but one story that i wont forget is that of Paul Ingram and the chapter on memory. The idea that our memories can be manipulated so easily is a terrifying thought and one that i am not soon to forget. Looking back on Paul Ingram's distressing story, we can see how multiple peoples lives changed because of memories.
Memories that may not actually be their true memories at all, but false memories that someone implanted into their mind. After attending a church retreat Paul's children returned believing they had been molested by him. It is shocking that something so devastating could be implanted into someones memory. We are slightly led to believe that the girls were lying, changing their stories multiple times and making implausible claims, but even if they did not truly have their memories changed it doesn't explain the effects shown by Paul. After his interrogations he admits to the multiple charges of molesting his daughters. He describes many instances in great detail, truly believing that he had committed these terrible crimes. A father, made to believe that he molested his children. It really made me think about my own memories, my own experiences and also those of my families. I like to think and feel that i control my thoughts and memories and that they wont change. They are a solid unchanging thing in my life. But after reading this story and debating it in class, it makes me question how much control we really have on our memories, it also makes me value them all the more! Hopefully this has made you think a bit more about the value and memories and thoughts, its can be a difficult realization. To conclude, if you don't remember Elizabeth Loftus watch the following video, or if you have doubts about creating false memories watch the video, and enjoy!
The insert live link won't work, so please go to the following:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=il0u2s_WGXA
Thank you.
It is extremely scary to me to think that our own memories can sometimes turn on us. If we can't even control our own minds and keep track of our memories, what do we have control over? Good thinking topic!