Recent studies in cognitive psychology have challenged the traditional view that human memory operates as a passive recording device. Instead, researchers propose that memory is a constructive process, wherein each act of recall involves reconstructing the past from fragments of stored information, influenced by current context, beliefs, and expectations. This reconstructive nature explains why eyewitness testimonies can be remarkably unreliable, as individuals may unconsciously fill gaps in their memory with plausible but inaccurate details. Furthermore, this perspective has profound implications for education, suggesting that learning strategies which encourage active retrieval and elaboration are more effective than passive rereading, because they strengthen the neural pathways associated with flexible reconstruction.
❓ According to the passage, why are eyewitness testimonies often unreliable?
A. Because memories are stored as exact copies of events.
B. Because recall is influenced by current beliefs and context, leading to potential inaccuracies.
C. Because eyewitnesses intentionally lie to mislead investigators.
D. Because the brain prioritizes visual information over auditory information.
✅ 正确答案
Because recall is influenced by current beliefs and context, leading to potential inaccuracies.
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