Erasing Memories: Technology & Hypnosis?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the possibility of erasing specific memories from the brain, particularly in relation to individuals or events. Participants highlight that while hypnosis can block access to certain memories, it does not erase them entirely. A skilled hypnotist is necessary for effective memory blocking. The conversation also references the film "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" as a cultural touchstone related to memory erasure.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of hypnosis techniques and their limitations
  • Familiarity with cognitive psychology concepts
  • Knowledge of memory formation and retrieval processes
  • Awareness of cultural references in media, specifically "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind"
NEXT STEPS
  • Research advanced hypnosis techniques and their effectiveness in memory blocking
  • Explore cognitive psychology studies on memory retrieval and erasure
  • Analyze the psychological impact of significant relationships on memory
  • Watch and critique "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" for its portrayal of memory and emotion
USEFUL FOR

Individuals interested in cognitive psychology, mental health professionals, those exploring the effects of relationships on memory, and fans of psychological films.

EvLer
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Is there a way to erase certain memory from one's brain? For instance, everything in relation to a person? or... certain events about the person... ? well, i mean something besides like drinking... does hypnosis do that? i should say that commonly suggested methods don't work...
just curious if that is possible with technology being so advanced and so much research in cognitive field, which... i don't know much about...
 
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EvLer said:
Is there a way to erase certain memory from one's brain? For instance, everything in relation to a person? or... certain events about the person... ? well, i mean something besides like drinking... does hypnosis do that?
Hypnosis can completely block a range or type of memory. Not erase, mind you, but block your conscious mind from access to it. You would need a really tip-top hypnotist, though, one who can get you WAY under.
 
Well, you could just try to stop thinking about it and go on about your life... Then you will still remember the person but won't be of any meaning to you anymore.

Other than that, you can't really forget someone if they've had such a big impact...

EDIT: Especially when you thinkg about trying to forget about them.
 
Watch "Eternal Sunshine for the Spotless Mind" the movie.
 
dduardo said:
Watch "Eternal Sunshine for the Spotless Mind" the movie.

exactly what i was thinking it sounded like. good movie too.
 
Thank you all...i come here mostly for technical questions, but... tonight for some reason decided to ask for ideas on non-technical stuff, since even scientists are people, i suppose...
Anyway, in my attempt, i just read a ton of anecdotes to set me at ease ... but there are so many reminders about that person ... all over campus and common friends! sounds horrible, but i wish i had a test to study for! technically i can find stuff to study... thanks for the movie suggestion, i'll put that on my list.
yeah... time, they say, takes care of a lot...
 
Last edited:
Watch "Eternal Sunshine for the Spotless Mind" the movie.
amazing film
 

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