Human memory, cerebral hemispheres, and the limbic system: A new approach

Author(s): Weinberg, I.

Journal/Book: Genet Soc Gen Psychol Monogr. 1999; 125: 1319 Eighteenth St NW, Washington, DC 20036-1802, USA. Heldref Publications. 45-70.

Abstract: An integrative approach to human memory is presented in the context of brain asymmetry. The results of psychophysiological investigations suggest that right-hemisphere functioning is closely associated with the limbic system; that association leads to the formation of a polysemantic context. Polysemantic context is determined by multiple interconnections among its elements; each element bears the stamp of the whole context. That context sustains episodic, personal, and emotionally laden memories. Left-hemisphere functioning leads to the formation of a monosemantic context, which is responsible for the maintenance of semantic memories. That distinction-in terms of general organization of material by hemispheres-explains such phenomena as memory disturbances among the very old, the influence of emotions on memory, and confabulations.

Note: Review Rotenberg VS, Y Abarbanel Mental Hlth Ctr, 15 Keren Kayemet St, IL-59100 Bat Yam, ISRAEL

Keyword(s): RETROGRADE-AMNESIA; DEPRESSED-PATIENTS; FACIAL EXPRESSION; CONFABULATION; RECOGNITION; DAMAGE; BRAIN; CONSOLIDATION; AMYGDALA; FACES

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