Cutting Edge Lectures in Science
Can we erase memories for therapeutic
benefits?
By Karim Nader (Psychology, McGill University)
If we could functionally erase a memory to make someone better
would that be acceptable? What if the memory was of a trauma that
has incapacitated someone for decades? Maybe the memories are of
drug addiction? If we could erase these memories shouldn’t we? Why
do we need memories if they keep us down? In a very playful manner,
my talk will address some of the science that is at the heart of
memory research today. The science suggests that memories can be
functionally erased. This science was taken and expanded to the
point of fiction in the film Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless
Mind (suggested viewing for the audience).
Organized by the Royal Society of Canada and McGill University with
the express purpose of fostering communication between scientists
in different disciplines as well as between scientists and the
public. Cutting Edge Lectures in Science are made possible
through the generous support of Heather Munroe-Blum (McGill
Principal), Richard Levin (Dean of Medicine), Martin Grant (Dean of
Science), Anthony Masi (Provost) and Denis Thérien (Vice-Principal,
Research and International Relations). Lectures are followed by
a vin d'honneur reception. Free, everyone welcome.