Is memory a natural kind?

TitleIs memory a natural kind?
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2011
AuthorsKourken Michaelian
JournalMemory Studies
Volume4
Issue2
Pagination170-189
ISSN1750-6980, 1750-6999
Abstract

Though researchers often refer to memory as if it were a unitary phenomenon, a natural kind, the apparent heterogeneity of the various ‘kinds’ of memory casts doubt on this default view. This article argues, first, that kinds of memory are individuated by memory systems. It argues, second, for a view of the nature of kinds of memory informed by the tri-level hypothesis. If this approach to kinds of memory is right, then memory is not in fact a natural kind.

URLhttp://mss.sagepub.com/content/4/2/170
DOI10.1177/1750698010374287