Human memory stores concepts as associative networks of linked nodes

Evidence

We can think of human memories as having a network structure. In particular, there are spiderlike structures that reside in our long-term memory, known as associative networks. These networks contain concepts (nodes) that are connected to each other via associative links (edges). The strength of the associative linkages depend on how well-connected the nodes are and how much importance people assign to them. — Sander van der Linden, Foolproof, 972

Categorization

• DEFINE: A compact account of associative network theory of memory.
• XREF: connects to: Denser associative memory networks yield stronger resistance to misinformation — Sander van der Linden, Foolproof: Why Misinformation Infects…, 973; Memory benefits from narrative, logical structure rather than disjointed facts — John T. Jost and Jim Sidanius, Political Psychology, 4586; Free-floating attention suspends reasoning constraints to enable resonant re-association — Yves Citton, The Ecology of Attention, 336 (+3 more)

Broader Connections

• Unconsciously primed concepts trigger corresponding behaviors in people #expands (0.80)
• Memory benefits from narrative, logical structure rather than disjointed facts #qualifies (0.75) — John T. Jost and Jim Sidanius, Political Psychology, 4586
• Mind reading draws on stored folk psychological knowledge #exemplifies (0.75) — Roderick M. Kramer, Geoffrey J. Leonardelli, Robert W. Livingston, Social Cognition, Social Identity, and…, 376
• Free-floating attention suspends reasoning constraints to enable resonant re-association #expands (0.72) — Yves Citton, The Ecology of Attention, 336
• Categorization distorts perception and memory by increasing within-group confusion #qualifies (0.72) — John F. Dovidio, Peter Glick, Laurie A. Rudman, On the Nature of Prejudice, 1156