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 a reconstructive process, where each act of retrieval is influenced by current knowledge, beliefs, and contextual cues. This dynamic model suggests that memories are not stored as fixed snapshots but are reassembled from distributed neural networks each time they are recalled. Consequently, eyewitness testimony, long considered reliable in legal proceedings, may be subject to significant distortion, especially when suggestive questioning or post-event information is introduced. Such findings have profound implications for both forensic practice and educational methodologies, urging professionals to design procedures that minimize memory contamination.
❓ According to the passage, what is the main implication of the reconstructive view of memory for legal settings?
A. Eyewitness testimony is always accurate and should be trusted without question.
B. Memory distortion can occur, so eyewitness accounts may be unreliable, particularly with suggestive questioning.
C. Legal professionals should rely solely on eyewitness testimony because memory is fixed.
D. Post-event information has no effect on how memories are recalled.
✅ 正确答案
Memory distortion can occur, so eyewitness accounts may be unreliable, particularly with suggestive questioning.
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