Question

Years ago, neuroscientists discovered that forming a memory causes physical changes in the brain in which new synaptic connections grow between the neurons. Each time we recall a memory it gets modified when we save it. Based on this research, it was, recently, reported that psychologists have found a way to erase the emotional anxiety associated with bad memories without erasing the memories themselves. It is done by using a drug called Propanolol which changes the way a memory is saved after being accessed. Can you think of some ways in which this research can be applied? Do you think it is a good thing or a bad thing? Would you like to alter your memories; if so, why or why not?

Answer 1

This research can be used in treating disorders which affects mental health such as PTSD, and other traumatic events which leads to anxiety. It can be applied for the use of certain disorders which are uncontrollable and interferes with personal life. This can be a good thing because of the above reason and also a bad thing because of the fact that it does not help resolve the feelings associated with it but simply masks it with the drug. Personally, I would not prefer to alter memories unless it is medically and ethically necessary.