Abstract – Prosthetic Memory

Prosthetic Memory

This chapter’s introduction explores the concept of prosthetic memory, which refers to memories that are formed through the action of mass media, such as cinema and film, and which are not directly experienced by the spectator. The author adopts Alison Landsberg’s theory of prosthetic memory and expands upon it by critically analyzing films that feature examples of prosthetic memory. The chapter explores the relationship between memory, identity, and artificial life, and also addresses brainwashing in films from the cold war era as another form of prosthetic memory. The author also identifies the limitations of the available terminology to define the diversity of representations of prosthetic memories. The chapter provides examples of prosthetic memory in science fiction films, including Blade Runner, Total Recall, and Oblivion, which explore both prosthetic and genetic memories. The author argues that science fiction films provide a rich source of examples of prosthetic memory, which challenge and negotiate the concepts of memory and identity in a variety of sub-genres, such as Cyberpunk and Biopunk.