Television news presenter for NBC Brian Williams is currently under fire and criticized after lying about different versions of his story when he took a helicopter ride during the 2003 invasion of Iraq. However, scientist has stepped in to defend Williams saying that the news anchor might have experienced some momentary lapse in memory.
According to some studies, memory is not as straightforward as most people think. There are instances that human memory could be wronged and this is what some scientist say about the case of Williams.
Professor of psychology and social behavior Elizabeth Loftus has conducted a series of research that aims to create and successfully plant false memories in the subjects mind, according to LA Times. According to Loftus, people can perceive these false memories as genuine through the power of suggestion.
Loftus added that there are many situation wherein people can develop false memories, one cited example was hearing other peoples conversation or reading certain news. Loftus was also certain that Williams might have developed false memories regarding his helicopter ride
Loftus said, "Memory is susceptible to contamination and distortion and supplementation. It happens to virtually all of us. This could easily be the development of a false memory.
Harvard psychology professor Daniel Schacter also agrees with Loftus. He added that memory can be altered and distorted for variety of reasons.
Williams was scrutinized after telling a story that he was on board a helicopter when it was struck by a rocket-propelled grenade. Military records however did not coincide with Williams' story.
The "NBC Nightly News" anchor decided to take some time off in order to rethink about his career, according to the Wall Street Journal.