“The memory coordinates information”

Memory is an exceedingly complex activity. In simple terms, we could say that it coordinates both simultaneous and successive activities:

Reception of information: all the senses are mobilised but also the consciousness of our own bodies. Information flows in continuously. Some is not even considered for retention.

Storage of information: some that our attention carries past the filter can be memorised: how do we choose ? how do we classify it ? Where will it be stored in the brain ? So many questions to be answered through the autonomous activity of memorisation.

Integration: This is perhaps the memory activity the least often mentioned, and yet it is the most necessary, to prevent our brain from being overloaded by the vast amount of information that piles up randomly, completing or contradicting other information. When it receives information, the memory compares it with similar information received previously, checks to see whether it is an addition, a correction or a contradiction. Tasting a new wine means comparing it with all the aromas and tastes we know already so as to define and situate it: I know this, or I don’t know; I like it or I don’t… Every single time, memorising causes intense activity to retrieve memories, comparisons, contrasts and integrating the new memory with the vast stock of old ones.

Started by reception activity, continued by activity for storing information received, followed by intense activity to sort and compare new data with that already stored, this is the coordinating activity of the memory.

The memory function is one of coordination :