Intelligent Memory: 5improve the Memory That Makes You Smarter

Gordon (Memory: Remembering and Forgetting in Everyday Life), who holds an endowed chair at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and is the director of the Memory Clinic, presents his concept of intelligent memory. Differing from ordinary memory because it involves more than simple recall, intelligent memory refers to the process by which the brain makes connections between pieces of information. These connections are used to solve problems, generate creative ideas and provide insight. Essentially unconscious, intelligent memory works with lightning speed. With freelance writer Berger, Gordon explains in accessible prose how to strengthen this memory by pursuing a series of mental exercises. Gordon believes that in order to navigate the complexities of the modern world, a skilled intelligent memory is essential. The exercises for the reader focus on the three defined aspects of intelligent memory: paying better attention, expanding conscious (or scratchpad) memory and learning to store more memories. For example, storing memories can be enhanced by relating new information to something that is already known. If someone is told that a snake with yellow stripes is dangerous, it will be easier to remember if the color yellow is mentally linked to a yellow traffic signal that symbolizes a warning. Although many of the exercises are challenging and fun to try, only the most motivated readers will persevere through all of them.