Hope for finding lost memories

gayle_yamazaki
Macmillan Employee
Macmillan Employee
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How many times have you said, "If only I could remember...." There are things I've learned and/or experienced that I wish I could remember. I've given up trying to find those lost memories and have relegated them to the dustbin of "Stuff I've Forgotten." There may be hope on the horizon for finding those lost jewels we'd like to remember.

In some recent research using mice, they were able to stimulate previously learned emotional responses that had been suppressed/eliminated. Here is a link to the story. If this could be done in humans, what might this mean for us or people with dementia-type disorders? Could I recall the foreign language I learned in college that I've long since forgotten? Could it improve eye-witness testimony in trials? Would we be more honest with ourselves or others?

Let me know your thoughts, ideas, and comments.

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About the Author
Dr. Yamazaki has been involved in adult education since the mid-1980's. She has developed technology-based education for the Air Force, commercial industry, and for higher education. She is certified in instruction systems design. She has taught courses for the Air Force and at community college, college, and university institutions. She was awarded the teaching excellence award at the US Air Force Academy as an instructor for the behavioral sciences. In her work with Macmillan Higher Education, she works with educators and editorial to consult on the development of educational products, services, and experiences for higher education.