Would You Rather Have Short Term Memory Loss or Long Term Memory Loss?

I often find myself struggling to recall what I was just about to say, or what the question was in the first place. That's the curse of having both short term memory (STM) and long term memory (LTM)!

Believe me, I’ve had both. If I had to choose, I would prefer having short term memory loss (STM) over long term memory loss (LTM). However, as a person who values my knowledge and experiences, I would rather have neither. But in the unfortunate event that memory loss is inevitable, I’d choose STM over LTM, and here’s why.

The Importance of Long Term Memory (LTM)

Long term memories are the treasure houses of our life experiences, knowledge, and wisdom. Over my 73 years, I've gathered a wealth of information that shapes my daily life. LTM guides me through my days as I navigate the complexities of raising edible plants, foraging for food, building shelter, understanding computers, and surviving day by day.

The Value of Short Term Memory (STM)

While my long term memory is crucial, recent experiences and fleeting thoughts don't hold the same weight. STM is like a scratchpad that helps me recall events and details right before my eyes. Recent encounters with people, articles I've read, and advances in technology are not irreplaceable, as I can always look up answers and stay informed through digital means.

Why Choose Short Term Memory Loss (STM)?

In a world where information is just a search away, forgetting recent data and details isn’t as damaging as losing the vast wealth of knowledge stored in LTM. Here’s a detailed look at why my choice of STM over LTM makes sense:

1. Reliability of Digital Tools: The internet and modern technology offer a vast repository of knowledge. I can quickly look up answers to technical questions, keep track of current events, and stay informed without relying solely on my memory.

2. Coping with Misinformation: By forgetting recent information, I reduce the risk of storing and recalling potentially misleading or outdated data. This prevents the propagation of false information and allows me to base my decisions on the most current and accurate sources.

3. Emotional Well-being: Long-term memories often include painful and traumatic experiences. STM allows me to compartmentalize these memories, while still retaining the wisdom and knowledge gained from them. This can lead to a more balanced emotional state and a healthier mental outlook.

4. Time Management: Remembering too much can be overwhelming and time-consuming. STM focuses on recent events and tasks, allowing me to stay organized and manage my time more effectively.

Conclusion

While long term memory (LTM) is invaluable and irreplaceable, short term memory (STM) can be managed and compensated for more easily. In the face of inevitability, I would much rather forfeit STM than lose LTM. The knowledge, experiences, and wisdom that shape my life are too precious to let go.

So, if you ever find yourself in a similar situation, consider consulting these key points in favor of short term memory loss. It might not be an ideal scenario, but it's a choice that can help preserve the most valuable aspect of who you are.