How Does Human Memory Work?

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The brain is by far the most complex system in the human body. Although many processes and components of the brain are important for humans to function, memory is by far one of the most unique characteristic s of the brain. The implication of memory can be seen in every aspect of a human's life, whether this is the retention of facts or executing and performing tasks to survive memory is a compilation of information that allows for functionality among people. Memory defines a person. The primary question regarding this topic is how can humans store information and then apply it to their surroundings? Answers are dependent on how the brain gains and stores information and then communicates that information to different parts of the brain. A human’s memory is based upon the brain’s structures, a person’s perceptions, and visualizations of their surroundings.
When studying memory, it's important to understand that there are two primary classifications of memory, Explicit and Implicit memory. Explicit memory is a conscious recollection of one's own previous experiences (Robert 2001). Explicit memory can be subdivided into other events that are personally connected to the person; these events primarily contain experiences that allow the person to retain factual information. Implicit memory is a collection of experiences that influence current behavior but are not able to be recalled. In simpler terms implicit memory is the application of past events that result in everyday life skills. For example a small child may touch a hot pot and get burned. In the future that child will know not to touch hot objects however the child would not remember that initial event. These two categories of memory are produced based upon how the senses ...

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...defines every human being, allowing people to live and function every day.

Works Cited

Miller, G. (n.d.). Smithsonian.com. Smithsonian magazine. Retrieved November 12, 2013, from http://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/How-Our-Brains-Make-Memories.html
Stix, G. (n.d.). Exceptional Memory Explained: How Some People Remember What They Had for Lunch 20 Years Ago | Observations, Scientific American Blog Network. Exceptional Memory Explained: How Some People Remember What They Had for Lunch 20 Years Ago | Observations, Scientific American Blog Network. Retrieved November 12, 2013, from http://blogs.scientificamerican.com/observations/2011/11/16/group-with-exceptional-memory-remembers-what-was-for-lunch-20-years-ago/
Robertson, L. (2001). Memory and the Brain. Journal of Dental Education, 66(1), 30-42. Retrieved November 13, 2013, from the NCSU Library database.

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