Recent studies in cognitive psychology have challenged the traditional view that human memory operates as a passive recording device. Instead, researchers now propose that memory is an active, reconstructive process, where each recall is influenced by current knowledge, beliefs, and contextual cues. This dynamic nature of memory has significant implications for eyewitness testimony, as individuals may inadvertently alter their recollections based on post-event information. For example, the misinformation effect demonstrates that exposure to misleading details after an event can lead to distorted memory reports. Consequently, legal systems are increasingly adopting stricter protocols for interviewing witnesses, such as cognitive interviews, to minimize contamination. These findings underscore the necessity of viewing memory not as a fixed archive, but as a malleable system susceptible to external influences.
❓ According to the passage, what is the main implication of the reconstructive nature of memory for legal contexts?
A. A. Eyewitness testimony is always unreliable and should be completely disregarded.
B. B. Legal procedures should be designed to reduce the risk of memory distortion in witnesses.
C. C. Memory improvements can be achieved through repeated questioning of witnesses.
D. D. The misinformation effect only occurs when witnesses are intentionally deceptive.
✅ 正确答案
B. Legal procedures should be designed to reduce the risk of memory distortion in witnesses.
IELTS Reading Tips
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