Discussion:
Human memory
A great detail of controversy has surrounded the phenomenon of "false memory syndrome" and the implications that this has had in our society, particularly in legal realm. One of the most influential psychologists in the area of memory and eye witness testimony is Dr. Elizabeth Loftus, who has spent three decades as a research psychologist and memory expert in legal cases. To learn more about the controversy surrounding "false memory syndrome," visit the Online LA Weekly site at
https://www.laweekly.com/ink/04/39/features-abramsky.php to read the article, "Memory and Manipulation."
Based on your reading of this article and information in the course textbook, respond to the following questions:
Why is human memory subject to error?
What might influence human memory?
In light of the points that the Loftus article brings up, what kind of implications do the limitations of human memory have on eye-witness testimony?