Abstract
Episodic memory is a neurocognitive (brain/mind) system, uniquely
different from other memory systems, that enables human beings to remember past
experiences. The notion of episodic memory was first proposed some 30 years ago. At
that time it was defined in terms of materials and tasks. It was subsequently refined and
elaborated in terms of ideas such as self, subjective time, and autonoetic consciousness.
This chapter provides a brief history of the concept of episodic memory, describes how
it has changed (indeed greatly changed) since its inception, considers criticisms of it,
and then discusses supporting evidence provided by (a) neuropsychological studies
of patterns of memory impairment caused by brain damage, and (b) functional neuroimaging
studies of patterns of brain activity of normal subjects engaged in various
memory tasks. I also suggest that episodic memory is a true, even if as yet generally
unappreciated, marvel of nature.
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