Memory: An Extended Definition

Abstract

Recent developments in science and technology point to the need to unify, and extend, the definition of memory. On the one hand, molecular neurobiology has shown that memory is largely a neuro-chemical process, which includes conditioning and any form of stored experience. On the other hand, information technology has led many to claim that cognition is also extended, that is, memory may be stored outside of the brain. In this paper, we review these advances and describe an extended definition of memory. This definition is largely accepted in neuroscience but not explicitly stated. In the extended definition, memory is the capacity to store and retrieve information. Does this new definition of memory mean that everything is now a form of memory? We stress that memory still requires incorporation, that is, in corpore. It is a relationship – where one biological or chemical process is incorporated into another, and changes both in a permanent way. Looking at natural and biological processes of incorporation can help us think of how incorporation of internal and external memory occurs in cognition. We further argue that, if we accept that there is such a thing as the storage of information outside the brain – and that this organic, dynamic process can also be called “memory” – then we open the door to a very different world. The mind is not static. The brain, and the memory it uses, is a work in progress; we are not now who we were then.

Various aspects of caring for elderly people in the interest of their self-reliance and independence, according to own propositions

“…The EU announced year 2012 as the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations, initiating many ben-ized in various forms of physical activity [20]. The basic ones include: -recreational stimulation -the application of active leisure, sport or rehabilitation exercises; -preventive stimulation -the goal is to prevent the premature ageing of people exposed to increased risks; -curative and rehabilitation stimulation -the goal is to restore fitness after an acute illness, and to counteract the loss of efficiency due to chronic diseases and progressive ageing [21]. Ancient people were aware that stimulation of seniors brings measurable benefits, and over the years the subject has increased in importance.…”

Storage of Information and Its Implications for Human Development: A Dialectic Approach

“…Given these implications, some may argue for holding on to the idea of memory as an internal process, a subjective experience that requires consciousness. Instead, we should now accept an extended definition of memory: the storage and retrieval of information (Zlotnik and Vansintjan, 2019).…”

Herbal drugs and natural bioactive products as potential therapeutics: A review on pro-cognitives and brain boosters perspectives

“…An overall standard definition is: “Memory is the ability of an individual to record sensory stimuli, events, pieces of information etc . and retain them over short or long periods and recall the same whenever needed at a later date” ( Zlotnik and Vansintjan, 2019 ). In short, memory is one of the most vital aspects for effective survival of human beings ( Shiksharthi et al, 2011 ).…”