‘Two Concepts of Memory’
This paper discusses two basic types of memory, conscious memory and unconscious memory. Ordinary usage of the word ‘memory’ refers almost exclusively to the conscious kind. However, there is solid neuroscientific evidence of memories that are not available to our awareness. By making a distinction between these two types, and discussing what it means to remember without knowing that you remember, this paper argues that the recognition of the unconscious memory system is critical to understanding human imagination and creativity.