Recent studies in cognitive science have challenged the traditional view that human memory operates like a video recorder, faithfully storing every detail of an experience. Instead, memory is now understood as a reconstructive process, wherein each recall is influenced by current knowledge, beliefs, and even the social context of the retrieval. This dynamic nature of memory has significant implications for eyewitness testimony, as subtle differences in how questions are phrased can alter a witness's recollection of an event. Researchers have demonstrated that post-event information, such as media reports or discussions with other witnesses, can become integrated into the original memory, leading to distortions that the individual believes are accurate. Consequently, legal systems are increasingly recognizing the fallibility of memory, prompting reforms in how evidence is gathered and presented in courtrooms.
❓ 지문에 따르면, 인간의 기억이 법적 맥락에서 신뢰할 수 없는 것으로 간주되는 이유는 무엇인가?
A. A. 기억은 뇌의 용량이 제한되어 있어 항상 불완전하기 때문이다.
B. B. 기억은 이후의 정보와 맥락에 의해 무의식적으로 변형될 수 있기 때문이다.
C. C. 목격자들이 종종 자신을 보호하기 위해 의도적으로 거짓말을 하기 때문이다.
D. D. 뇌가 기억을 실제로 발생한 그대로 저장하기 때문이다, 마치 비디오 녹화기처럼.
✅ 正确答案
B. Because memories can be unconsciously modified by later information and contexts.
IELTS Reading Tips
Skim the questions first, underline keywords, then locate in the passage
Watch for paraphrasing; correct answers are often reworded
Be wary of absolute statements (all, always, never) — usually wrong
Pay attention to content after transition words (however, but, yet)
Manage time: about 20 minutes per passage; skip difficult questions first