Subscribe now

Elizabeth Loftus forecasts the future

By Elizabeth Loftus

15 November 2006

I’ve spent three decades learning how to alter people’s memories. I’ve even gone so far as planting entirely false memories into the minds of ordinary people – memories such as being lost in a shopping mall, cutting your hand on broken glass or even witnessing demonic possession as a child, all planted through the power of suggestion.

Psychological scientists have learned so much about planting false memories that some say we almost have recipes for doing so. But we haven’t seen anything yet. Over the next 50 years we will further master the ability to create false memories. We will learn…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop