Explain the controversy about recovered memories, summarize evidence for and against the likely accuracy of recovered memories, and explain how you would rule and why.
Use only the three sources listed below as sources of evidence.
In-text Citations:
- (Loftus, 1993) – For evidence supporting the reality of repressed memories
- (Geraerts et al., 2007) – For empirical evidence on the reality of recovered memories
- (Loftus, 1997) – For exploration of false memories and memory malleability
References:
- Loftus, E. (1993). The Reality of Repressed Memories. American Psychologist, 48, 518–537.
- Geraerts, E., et al. (2007). The Reality of Recovered Memories. Psychological Science, 18(7), 564–568.
- Loftus, E. (1997). Creating False Memories. Scientific American, 277(3), 70–75.
Research outline: Admission of a "Recovered" Memory in a Court Case
I. Introduction A. Brief overview of the case involving the admission of a recovered memory B. Significance of the recovered memory controversy in legal contexts C. Working thesis: "This paper examines the controversy surrounding the admission of recovered memories in a court case, considering scientific evidence both for and against their likely accuracy."
II. Controversy about Recovered Memories A. Historical context of the debate 1. Early skepticism and challenges to the validity of recovered memories B. Legal implications 1. The impact of recovered memories on legal proceedings 2. The debate over the admissibility of such memories in court
III. Evidence Favoring Allowing the Testimony A. Overview of scientific studies supporting the validity of recovered memories 1. Loftus (1993) – Examination of the reality of repressed memories 2. Geraerts et al. (2007) – Empirical evidence supporting the reality of recovered memories B. Arguments for the woman's right to present her recovered memory to the jury 1. Discussion of recent scientific findings supporting the accuracy of recovered memories
IV. Evidence Favoring Not Allowing the Testimony A. Overview of scientific skepticism and challenges to the validity of recovered memories 1. Loftus (1997) – Exploration of false memories and the malleability of memory B. Arguments against allowing the woman's testimony 1. The potential for emotional biasing of the jury 2. Concerns about the reliability of recovered memories
V. Ruling as a Judge A. Analysis of the presented evidence 1. Weighing the credibility of scientific studies on both sides B. The judge's decision on allowing or disallowing the woman's testimony 1. Balancing the legal and scientific considerations 2. Considering the potential impact on the jury and the pursuit of justice
VI. Conclusion A. Recap of the controversy and the presented evidence B. Final thoughts on the admissibility of recovered memories in court C. The importance of an informed and balanced legal decision-making process