Where memory resides: Is there a rivalry between molecular and synaptic models of memory?

Colaço, David und Najenson, Jonathan (2024): Where memory resides: Is there a rivalry between molecular and synaptic models of memory? In: Philosophy of Science, Vol. 91, No. 5: pp. 1382-1392

Abstract

Recent proposals that the substrate of memory is molecular raise questions about where this molecular model stands in relation to the dominant synaptic model of memory. In this article, we address the perceived rivalry between these models and ask whether they can be integrated. We argue that addressing rivalry or integration requires delineating the explananda of synaptic and molecular models, as well as revisiting assumptions about how these models account for their explananda. The perceived rivalry between these models exemplifies epistemic costs that arise when we try to pit explanatory models as rivals or integrate them.

• Item Type: Journal article
• Faculties: Philosophy, Philosophy of Science and Religious Science > Chair of Philosophy of Science
• Subjects: 100 Philosophy and Psychology > 100 Philosophy
• ISSN: 0031-8248
• Language: English