Charan Ranganath (on memory)
Charan Ranganath (Why We Remember: Unlocking Memory's Power to Hold on to What Matters) is a neuroscientist. Charan joins the Armchair Expert to discuss the mechanics of memory, how AI learning is different than human learning, and the influence that present context has on memories. Charan and Dax talk about the relationship of imagination to memory, the problems with hypnosis, and repressed memories. Charan explains how sleep can conceptualize memories, the ways photos can influence memories, and how traumatic memories affect the brain.
Listen on any podcast platforms including –
I have always been fascinated with memory. Two people can experience the same movie, concert, vacation, accident and recall it in a much different way. I got into an accident once and the insurance company had called to ask me details of that moment. I recall pausing at the following question “Was it a green light or red light at the time of the accident?” I could not remember, but clearly I knew at that moment what the color of the light was. As I consider this podcast, I loved putting together how we recall things and how memories are a story we build over time. This is a lighthearted conversation about how memory works and what it scientifically means to remember something. I hope you enjoy it an can remember it in the days to come :-).
PODCAST GUIDED questions/activities
Questions:
The reminiscent bump is mentioned in this podcast as the period of time we recall the most in our lives. Do you relate to this? Does it seem that you recall memories in this time period? If so, let’s share some!
The digital impact on memories was discussed and the idea if you document something then you will remember it. We see this all around us. How do you like to document your life? What is your relationship with capturing memories in the digital age?
The digital age tends to fill our time and our heads with information. Information that may or may not get filed away. How would you like to see the future of time and information look? What impact do you think it will have on future generations and their memories?
From what you have heard about memory in this podcast, how do you think it relates to your idea of yourself? Do you tend to think your memories are any indication of yourself? What does your memories and idea of your self mean to you?