Daniel Schacter Searching for memory

Schacter, Daniel L.: Searching for memory. The Brain, the Mind, and the Past. NY: Basic Books, 1996.

Content: the subjectivity of memory; the accuracy of memory; different types of memory; different systems/domains of memory; what happens to memory as we age; autobiographical memory; how we construct memory; what can go wrong with memory – studies of amnesic patients and what this has told us about memory; effects of emotionally traumatic memory; the issue of recovered memories (sensible view: that some therapists have probably helped to create false memories; that some recovered memories are accurate). Includes a number of personal stories of amnesics, and of writers and artists who have been dramatically affected by attempts to recover the past, or by traumatic memories.

Author’s qualifications: Eminently qualified. An academic who has worked in the field of memory for over 20 yrs. Professor of Psychology at Harvard University.

Readability: Readable, although for readers of SJ Gould rather than Jackie Collins.

Accuracy: If he says it, I believe it.

Currency: The book was published in 1996. It’s up-to-date for that time.

Comprehensiveness: As a general introduction to the subject of memory, it’s great. An integrated account. But there is a lot of information, maybe overwhelming to a neophyte, and there is more clinical/neurological information than might be wanted by some. This is a book not to be swallowed but savored.

Amount of background knowledge assumed: As I say, it’s more for the reader of Stephen Jay Gould — that is, a reasonable degree of education and literacy is required. A knowledge of psychology wouldn’t hurt.

Usefulness: Not particularly useful for improving memory; but helpful in developing an integrated understanding of memory. Probably more useful if you already have a basic understanding of memory — this book will advance and enrich your understanding.

Memorability: Memorable by virtue of being an integrated account, and being rich in interesting detail. On the other hand, there is a great deal of detail, and, not being a textbook, it is not organized for memorability (reviews, summaries, helpful illustrations, etc).

Interest: I found it fascinating. I think it is full of interesting detail for both novices and people who know about memory.

Balance: Neuropsychology rather than cognitive psychology. The author has done extensive work with people suffering from various forms of amnesia. The perspective is neurological/clinical rather than cognitive.

Availability: Readily available. Amazon prices it at US$12.

Length: around 400 pages

Includes an index, extensive bibliography, chapter notes.

Comment:: Schacter is fond of referring to “memory’s fragile power”, which words seem to me peculiarly apt in expressing the essence of memory.

Overall rating (reflects my own opinion of the book’s worth, not its usefulness to you): *****