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.
❓ Согласно тексту, каково основное значение реконструктивной природы памяти для юридических контекстов?
A. A. Показания очевидцев всегда ненадёжны и должны полностью игнорироваться.
B. B. Юридические процедуры должны быть разработаны таким образом, чтобы снизить риск искажения памяти у свидетелей.
C. C. Улучшения памяти можно достичь путём повторных допросов свидетелей.
D. D. Эффект дезинформации возникает только тогда, когда свидетели намеренно вводят в заблуждение.
✅ 正确答案
B. Legal procedures should be designed to reduce the risk of memory distortion in witnesses.
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