Popular Myths about Memory: Media Representations versus Scientific Evidence

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Description

Misconceptions about memory phenomena often go hand-in-hand with popular misrepresentations of its function in media. In Popular Myths about Memory, Brian H. Bornstein examines how the representation of memory in novels, movies, and television shows often clashes with scientific research. Bornstein discusses the consequences of these myths on the popular understanding of memory and its functions. Depictions of amnesia, eyewitness accounts, and superior memory are just a few of the processes explored and debunked. This book is recommended for scholars interested in psychology, media and film studies, literary studies, and communication studies.

Reviews

Rarely is a book about memory published that is equally suited to the scholar and the layperson. Clearly and concisely, Popular Myths About Memory covers topics as diverse as the brains role in memory, amnesia, dementia, memory and the legal system, and superior memory. Most importantly Popular Myths About Memory explains how myths about these topics are wrongly portrayed by popular media and how these popular myths clash with scientific evidence. Bornsteins book is a must-read for anyone interested in memory. -- Jonathan Golding, Dr., University of Kentucky
An engaging examination of how entertainment media can perpetuate truths and myths about memory, Bornstein has hit the perfect balance between informing and entertaining his readers. Popular Myths about Memory: Media Representations versus Scientific Evidence explores memory phenomena ranging from purported memories for events that never happened to astounding feats of memory prowess. Reading this book will increase awareness of how our memory is accountable for the terrible and the wonderful, the mundane and amazing. -- Scott D. Gronlund, University of Oklahoma
Bornstein debunks several popular myths about memory and how memory is portrayed in the popular media. This book is engaging, interesting, and thoroughly researched. Popular Myths about Memory is essential reading for anyone interested in memory, both true and false memories, and how it impacts everyday life. -- Jeffrey Neuschatz, University of Alabama in Huntsville
A highly readable antidote to the many stubbornly popular misconceptions about human memory. Using an engaging mix of popular films and empirical data, Bornstein effectively illustrates both the pervasiveness of memory myths and the evidence that exposes their fictional status. Memory is not about documenting the past. It is about using past experience to function adaptively in the present. Bornstein's book will prove to be a valuable resource in getting that message across to my students. -- Matt J. Rossano, Southeastern Louisiana University
An exceptionally well written work of seminal scholarship. * Midwest Book Review *

Author Bio

Brian H. Bornstein is professor of psychology and courtesy professor of law at the University of NebraskaLincoln.