Editors’ Introduction

Abstract

This book targets a readership of researchers, and members of the interested general public. It provides an update on recent advances in our conceptual understanding of memory in the context of genocide, as well as on the latest research on the neurobiological and psychosocial correlates of memory in those affected by genocide. Research on memory has been struggling with differences in definitions and diverse approaches; yet now is exactly the right time to provide not only a summary of what is already known but to outline directions for future research that bring together science, philosophy, history and art. Consider the enormous impact of genocide on affected populations and their offspring. This impact created an urgent need for a book that addresses inquiries from researchers, scholars, and artists, one that broadly presents up-to-date information about memory construction and functioning, the newest data on neurobiology of memory, and the latest approaches to the philosophic understanding and artistic representation of memory. This knowledge is especially timely because we often are faced with the consequences of current political actors, who increasingly use genocidal tools and practices to achieve their evil ends. Sadly, we daily learn of on-going large-scale atrocities around the world.