What is eidetic memory?

Do not confuse having a good memory with being smart. Either way, having a good memory can have many benefits. Obviously, memory varies from one individual to another, and it is something that can be very advanced in some. This is particularly the case for those who have an eidetic memory.

An exceptional ability to memorize an image

Thanks to the series The Big Bang Theory, many of us have learned that there is something called an eidetic memory. Indeed, the genius of science Sheldon Cooper is endowed with an eidetic memory in the series. But in fact, what exactly is an eidetic memory? Eidetic memory is defined as the ability to clearly recall an image one is exposed to – as well as sounds and other sensations associated with that image – even after looking away.

In other words, many people have an eidetic memory, but it is not referred to if that vivid memory is brief. Indeed, in most people, clear memories of an image last only a very brief moment, no more than a few seconds. But in other individuals, the image persists for hours, days and even months; and it is to these rare people that we generally refer when we speak of eidetic memory. There is also a hypothesis that these memories are eternal in some individuals, and then these people are said to be endowed with photographic memory or absolute memory.

Eidetic memory and photographic memory: what is the difference?

It is therefore important to understand that there is a difference between eidetic memory and photographic memory, two terms that we tend to confuse. The difference is simple: the time limit. While vivid memories tied to an eidetic memory end up being forgotten at some point, those tied to photographic memory are meant to last forever. If science admits and understands the existence of eidetic memory, this is far from being the case with regard to photographic memory.

Indeed, many researchers believe that such a thing cannot exist. In particular, they argue that people who clearly remember scenes for long periods of time use normal memory enhancement techniques, such as association or segmentation, explained BetterHelp. That is, the researchers don’t believe that people can actually see the image, exactly as they originally saw it, in their minds long after the event. Besides, there is no scientific proof that absolute memory really exists.

As for how eidetic memory works physiologically, researchers believe it is controlled by the posterior parietal cortex of the parietal lobe of the brain. This section of the brain is involved in processing visual stimuli and storing images. Moreover, the scientists also explained that eidetic memory is generally more present in young children. Researchers have hypothesized that changes in development – ​​such as the acquisition of new language skills and sociocultural learning – have a large impact on eidetic memory.