Publisher's Synopsis
A NEW YORK TIMES NOTABLE BOOK. A psychologist's "gripping and thought-provoking" look at how and why our brains sometimes fail us (Steven Pinker, author of How the Mind Works).A groundbreaking work by one of the world's foremost memory experts, The Seven Sins of Memory offers the first framework that explains common memory vices ??—?? and their surprising virtues. In this fascinating study, Daniel L. Schacter explores instances of what we would consider memory failure ??—?? absent-mindedness, transience, blocking, misattribution, suggestibility, bias, and persistence ??—?? and suggests instead that these miscues are actually indications that memory is functioning as designed. Drawing from fascinating scientific research and creative literature, as well as high-profile events in which memory has figured significantly (Bill Clinton's grand jury testimony, for instance), The Seven Sins of Memory provides a more nuanced understanding of how memory and the mind influence each other and shape our lives.Winner of the American Psychological Association's William James Book Award.
