Free shipping on orders over $99
Forgetting

Forgetting

The Mind's Survival Mechanism

by Douwe Draaisma
Hardback
Publication Date: 03/03/2015

Share This Book:

 
$53.99
Does forgetting signal a failing mind? What can be done to ward off forgetfulness? Is there an upside to forgetting?

In his highly praised book The Nostalgia Factory, renowned memory scholar Douwe Draaisma explored the puzzling logic of memory in later life with humor and deep insight. In this compelling new book he turns to the "miracle" of forgetting. Far from being a defect that may indicate Alzheimer's or another form of dementia, Draaisma claims, forgetting is one of memory's crucial capacities. In fact, forgetting is essential.

Weaving together an engaging array of literary, historical, and scientific sources, the author considers forgetting from every angle. He pierces false clich s and asks important questions: Is a forgotten memory lost forever? What makes a colleague remember an idea but forget that it was yours? Draaisma explores "first memories" of young children, how experiences are translated into memory, the controversies over repression and "recovered" memories, and weird examples of memory dysfunction. He movingly examines the impact on personal memories when a hidden truth comes to light. In a persuasive conclusion the author advocates the undervalued practice of "the art of forgetting"--a set of techniques that assist in erasing memories, thereby preserving valuable relationships and encouraging personal contentment.
ISBN:
9780300207286
9780300207286
Category:
The self
Format:
Hardback
Publication Date:
03-03-2015
Language:
English
Publisher:
Yale University Press
Country of origin:
United States
Dimensions (mm):
219x144x30.24mm
Weight:
0.5kg

Click 'Notify Me' to get an email alert when this item becomes available

Reviews

Be the first to review Forgetting.