Collective memory and autobiographical memory: Perspectives from the humanities and cognitive sciences

The current overview provides an interdisciplinary synthesis of autobiographical and collective memory studies, focusing on history and cognitive psychology, to help other scholars bridge the disciplinary gap. We describe the various interpretative frameworks used to build theoretical knowledge on how autobiographical memory and collective memory are intertwined. We expose how research exploring self, social and directive functions of autobiographical memory echoes three main functions that can be identified for collective memory, that is, social identity, social schemata, and means for actions, or a political decision tool of research in these fields. In doing so, we hope to stimulate opportunities for more interdisciplinary research.This article is categorized under:Psychology > MemoryPsychology > Theory and Methods

Automated summary

This article provides an interdisciplinary synthesis of autobiographical and collective memory studies, focusing on history and cognitive psychology, in order to bridge the disciplinary gap. It describes the different interpretative frameworks used to build theoretical knowledge on the interconnection between autobiographical memory and collective memory. By examining the self, social, and directive functions of autobiographical memory, the article highlights their correlation with the social identity, social schemata, and means for actions in collective memory research, serving as a political decision tool. The aim is to stimulate opportunities for more interdisciplinary research.