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1 results

  • 23 - Adaptive Memory

  • from Part II - Evolution of Memory Processes
  • Edited by Mark A. Krause, Southern Oregon University, Karen L. Hollis, Mount Holyoke College, Massachusetts, Mauricio R. Papini, Texas Christian University
  • Book:
    Evolution of Learning and Memory Mechanisms
    Published online:
    26 May 2022
    Print publication:
    19 May 2022, pp 406-423

  • Summary

    Human memory is an evolved trait, fine-tuned over generations by the process of natural selection. Using the technique of forward engineering, our laboratory has derived empirical predictions about remembering by focusing on the main criteria that drive natural selection. Memory systems must have evolved because they enhanced fitness — i.e., survival and reproduction — so we reasoned that memory’s operating characteristics likely show sensitivity to fitness dimensions. As we review in this chapter, this strategy has led to the discovery of a number of novel phenomena, some of which are among the most potent memory-enhancing techniques yet discovered in the memory field. Included in our discussion are the effects of survival processing, animacy, potential contamination from disease, and finding potential mating partners. Throughout, we consider the merits of taking an evolutionary perspective on the discovery and interpretation of mnemonic phenomena.