Why use the word “function”
when referring to memory ?

Firstly we must define the term “function”.

“A function is a set of properties working toward a same objective in human beings” (Petit Robert dictionary)

Or again:

“A function is a system providing coordination of independent mechanisms within a particular whole.”

Or “all the active properties working toward the same objective in a living being”. Thus we speak of cardiac or digestive functions.

If we take this last definition of biological functions, we have in each case:

Multiple places : where this action occurs.

The digestive function begins with the absorption of food and ends with the expulsion of waste, going via the stomach, the liver, the intestines… There are several organs, each with its own role, method of operation, and a single objective: feeding the body.

The memory acts as a function:

It coordinates the activity of many biological centres : the time is long past when people tried to find a single seat for memory in the brain. . Any mental act involves the entire brain, from the cerebellum to the thalamus, from the grey nucleus to the cortex; the whole brain is in movement as soon as the memory is activated. It also coordinates all mental activity : intelligence and emotion. I remember because I understand, also because I feel. Not remembering usually means either that we did not understand or that we were not interested or motivated to retain information

The memory has many houses.
There is only one objective.

Like all functions, the memory:

Coordinates

Obeys laws

Changes over time