Memory is mental storage. It is similar to a file cabinet in which we place our perceptions. Our decisions and the results of our decisions are stored in our memories. Our beliefs can be found in our memories. Past feelings and many times the cause of those feelings are kept in one’s memory. The memory serves as a receptacle for one’s frame of reference.
One’s memory, like a file cabinet, can be orderly and disciplined, or chaotic and cluttered. This depends upon how one decides to build that portion of his memory that is ‘voluntary.’ Some portions of memory are not voluntary, but circumstances can be avoided that will place unnecessary or awkward items in the memory. One can accept anything into his memory and hope it is all right or not give it any thought. He can accept it without a standard for order and his memory will be in disarray. On the other hand, one can establish a standard and build an orderly and disciplined memory. The more order and discipline, the more valuable is the component of memory.
The storage aspect of the memory is more important in the areas of beliefs, including opinions, conclusions and standards, than in the area of raw information. One can research and find most raw information, if it is forgotten. One’s beliefs, however, belong to the individual and cannot be ‘looked up’ unless the individual’s frame of reference has been recorded. If one has not built his frame of reference with care and placed proper information and beliefs in his memory, he cannot reasonably trust his frame of reference without first re-examining each belief and bit of information for accuracy and consistency. In his first dictionary, Noah Webster included the concept of a “belief without evidence” in his definition of ‘superstition.’ If a person cannot defend his belief system with evidence, then he could be considered superstitious. This is precisely what happens when he constructs his frame of reference in a haphazard, undisciplined manner. This leads to a defensive reaction whenever one’s beliefs are questioned. Neither defensiveness nor superstition leads to good decision making.
While memory is important in the decision making process, it is not of primary importance. Information can be gathered through sound research methods and one’s frame of reference can be examined for accuracy with each major decision. If the frame of reference is found to be inaccurate or insufficient, then the situation can be remedied. One can even record his decision making process for future reference if it becomes necessary due to a faulty memory.
Parents and teachers play an important role in forming a child’s frame of reference. Their own frames of reference influence each decision concerning the child. Their memories about their childhood are an influence. The immature child is not yet aware of his frame of reference and his need for an orderly, disciplined memory. If his education does not stress this area, he and others will eventually suffer for it. If parents or teachers build a haphazard, cluttered frame of reference for the child, they are actually limiting the child’s ability to reason. This will lead the child to erroneous conclusions and beliefs which will hinder, and even harm, the child’s decision making ability. If left uncorrected, this will hamper his life as an adult. If the problem of chaotic and cluttered frames of reference is wide spread in a society, the society becomes more chaotic and cluttered with a resulting break down in order.
A memory that is an orderly and disciplined storage area for one’s frame of reference can be a great tool in decision making. If on realizes that his memory is chaotic and cluttered, however, he can take steps to correct the situation. The steps may be difficult, but they are worthwhile. The problem many individuals have is their lack of understanding of the function of the memory. Without such an understanding, one will be continually frustrated in the decision making process.
