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Remember

summary ofRememberBook by Lisa Genova

11 min
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You’ll learn

  • How your brain creates memories
  • Why you lie more often than you think
  • What the hippocampus is
  • Ways to prevent Alzheimer’s disease

first KEY POINT

The spark is gone

Memory is like a spouse with whom you've shared countless happy, sad, and cringeworthy moments, along with inside jokes and songs that make you go, "Oh, remember when…"Yet, you’ve sadly started noticing how you’ve grown apart lately. They forgot your birthday this year and were overall less present than before. Should you let the relationship go or try to fix it?

Don’t expect your memory to record everything; focus on remembering what’s important to you.

Unfortunately, many people experience this downward spiral regarding memory. Under the spell of anxiety and overthinking, they start frantically googling for the signs of Alzheimer’s after forgetting an actor's name or where they parked their car. But just like any relationship, suspicion only breeds discontent.Knowledge is the best therapy if you're worried about your memory skills. Instead of unfounded fears, you need science-backed information to rebuild a harmonious relationship with your memory. In other words, you must understand how it ticks.Come along and learn how your brain remembers and forgets to equip yourself for a lifelong, mentally satisfying journey!

second KEY POINT

How to cook a memory

If creating memories is cooking, then your hippocampus — your brain's memory center — is a five-Michelin-star chef. It can whip up anything and has a slightly better aptitude for specific dishes or cuisines. For instance, you might be better at remembering numbers than names — no big deal.Just like a great cook can create an unforgettable meal out of seemingly mismatched ingredients, your brain can weave unrelated information into a cohesive memory you’ll carry throughout your lifetime.Sounds like magic, right? It is mesmerizing, yet behind every magic trick is a clear, step-by-step process refined to perfection. So, if you’re ready, let’s demystify memory creation.

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first KEY POINT

What’s in it for me?

second KEY POINT

Let your hands do the work

third KEY POINT

You lie more than you know

fourth KEY POINT

It’s not what you think

fifth KEY POINT

Conclusion

About the author

Lisa Genova is a celebrated neuroscientist and author who explores brain disorders and the science of memory. Her book Still Alice touches on the Alzheimer's experience and has received broad public appreciation.

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Frequently asked questions

What is Remember: The Science of Memory and the Art of Forgetting about?

Remember: The Science of Memory and the Art of Forgetting, authored by Neel Burton, delves into how our memory works and the cognitive processes behind remembering and forgetting. The book intricately explores the intricacies of memory formation, retention, and the mechanisms that lead to forgetting, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in the science of the mind.

Is Remember: The Science of Memory and the Art of Forgetting worth reading?

Absolutely! Remember: The Science of Memory and the Art of Forgetting is worth reading for its insightful exploration of memory, as well as practical advice on how to enhance your memory and understand the reasons behind forgetfulness. Whether you're a student, professional, or simply curious about cognitive science, this book offers compelling anecdotes and research that are both informative and engaging.

How many pages is Remember: The Science of Memory and the Art of Forgetting and when was it published?

Remember: The Science of Memory and the Art of Forgetting spans approximately 320 pages and was published in March 2020. This comprehensive length allows for a thorough exploration of its themes and insights.

What are key takeaways from Remember: The Science of Memory and the Art of Forgetting?

Key takeaways from Remember: The Science of Memory and the Art of Forgetting include the importance of context in memory, the role of emotions in memory retention, and effective strategies to improve memory. The book emphasizes that forgetting is just as critical as remembering in shaping our understanding and experiences.

Who is the author of Remember: The Science of Memory and the Art of Forgetting?

The author of Remember: The Science of Memory and the Art of Forgetting is Neel Burton, a psychiatrist and author known for his expertise in psychology and philosophy. His background lends authority to the insights presented in the book, making it a credible resource for readers.