eli5: Why do most people have no memories from before age 4 or 5 years old?
In: 4721
Things we remember are the things we remember more. From everything that happened today, there will be some things which will stand out more than others. 5 days later, you’re more likely to remember those things that stood out than the other stuff that happened today. And once you’ve accessed that memory, it’s easier to access it again.
Think of it like a forest. Paths that are taken more become walkways. Paths not taken have overgrown vegetation. But if people stop taking that walkway, plants will start growing on it again and it’ll become a non walkway very soon.
Memories of the times before you’re 3 or 4 were barely accessed. With growing time, you’re less likely to access. Say when you’re 5, you probably remember things from when you’re 4. But since you don’t think about those things, the memories seem to fade.
Latest Answers