select search filters
briefings
roundups & rapid reactions
Fiona fox's blog

scientists react to research on the ethics of eradicating bad memories in humans

A study from researchers at the University of Amsterdam has shown that a type of beta-blocker drug commonly prescribed for high blood pressure may also have the effect of erasing bad memories, shown by tests in which fearful images elicited less of a ‘startle response’ when repeatedly shown after the drug was administered.

John Harris FMedSci, Lord Alliance Professor of Bioethics at University of Manchester, said:

“It is obviously up to the individual whether or not she wishes to risk the possible effects, including psychological discontinuity, of erasing unpleasant memories. An interesting complexity is the possibility that victims, say of violence, might wish to erase the painful memory and with it their ability to give evidence against assailants. Similarly criminals and witnesses to crime may, under the guise of erasing a painful memory (perhaps of another sort) render themselves unable (with a good excuse for being unable) to give evidence.”

Dr Daniel Sokol, Lecturer in Medical Ethics, St George’s, University of London, said:

“Removing bad memories is not like removing a wart or a mole. It will change our personal identity since who we are is linked to our memories. It may perhaps be beneficial in some cases, but before eradicating memories, we must reflect on the knock-on effects that this will have on individuals, society and our sense of humanity.”

in this section

filter RoundUps by year

search by tag