Although the identification of synaptic changes that underlie the representation of simple associative memories in invertebrates demonstrated that it is possible to alter the neural instantiation and behavioural expression of unique memories 1, applying similar techniques to humans has proved elusive. The memory-manipulating techniques in these films rely on science fiction-based notions about how we can edit memories, with the implicit assumption that unique memories have identifiable signatures in the brain that can be targeted for implantation or deletion.ĭespite the prevalence of memory editing in science fiction, it has mostly been just that-fiction. As these films illustrate, even when the intention of memory editing is to reduce pain or protect someone, there can be unexpected consequences.

The idea of selectively editing memories has also emerged in children’s films ( The Incredibles 2, Frozen In other science fiction films, memories are erased to hide government secrets ( Men in Black) or implanted to provide virtual ‘vacations’ ( Total Recall). If you could erase the memory of the worst day of your life, would you? How about your memory of a person who has caused you pain? The notion that this is possible was the premise of the critically acclaimed film Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, in which two lovers choose to erase their memories of a relationship that has gone bad, only to find that they are drawn to each other once again.

Tsearch memory editor avp2