Eidetic memory
Photographic memory or eidetic memory refers to the ability of a person to recall images, sounds, or objects in memory with great accuracy and in seemingly unlimited volume. For instance, many famous artists and composers like Claude Monet and Mozart possibly had eidetic memory. However, Dr. Marvin Minsky in his book The Society of Mind claims to have been unable to verify claims of eidetic memory (see sections 15.3 & 15.6) and considers reports of eidetic memory to be "unfounded myths". Perhaps claims for eidetic memory can be considered a subset of the "urban legend" phenomenon. The word eidetic itself refers to a remarkable recall of vivid images.
Many believe that Autists frequently display this ability, as well as those with similar conditions like Asperger's Syndrome.
Eidetic memory in fiction
This is a partial list:
- Funes, the Memorious by Jorge Luis Borges
- Starman Jones by Robert A. Heinlein
- Beyond This Horizon by Robert A. Heinlein
- Stranger in a Strange Land (the professional witnesses) by Robert A. Heinlein
- Digital Fortress by Dan Brown
- The Shadow of the Torturer by Gene Wolfe
- My Idea of Fun by Will Self
- For Kings and Planets by Ethan Canin
- Small Gods by Terry Pratchett
See also