How to Change a Memory

One Neuroscientist's Quest to Alter the Past

By: Steve Ramirez

Narrated by: Steve Ramirez

This audiobook narrated by Steve Ramirez shares his disarmingly personal account of the new science of memory manipulation

As a graduate student at MIT, Steve Ramirez successfully created false memories in the lab. Now, as a neuroscientist working at the frontiers of brain science, he foresees a future where we can replace our negative memories with positive ones. In How to Change a Memory, Ramirez draws on his own memories—of friendship, family, loss, and recovery—to reveal how memory can be turned on and off like a switch, edited, and even constructed from nothing.

A future in which we can change our memories of the past may seem improbable, but in fact, the everyday act of remembering is one of transformation. Intentionally editing memory to improve our lives takes advantage of the brain's natural capacity for change.

In How to Change a Memory, Ramirez explores how scientists discovered that memories are fluid—they change over time, can be erased, reactivated, and even falsely implanted in the lab. Reflecting on his own path as a scientist, he examines how memory manipulation shapes our imagination and sense of self. If we can erase a deeply traumatic memory, would it change who we are? And what would that change mean anyway? Throughout, Ramirez carefully considers the ethics of artificially controlling memory, exploring how we might use this tool responsibly—for both personal healing and the greater good.

A masterful blend of memoir and cutting-edge science, How to Change a Memory explores how neuroscience has reached a critical juncture, where scientists can see the potential of memory manipulation to help people suffering from the debilitating effects of PTSD, anxiety, Alzheimer's, addiction, and a host of other neurological and behavioral disorders.

©2025 Steve Ramirez (P)2025 Princeton University Press

Stands Out in a Crowded Genre

A personal story of memories that introduces, teaches, and inspires us about this emerging field of memory science.
This book has some great “I didn’t see that coming” moments that kept me wanting to listen every chance I had.

Highly recommend! You’ll be amazed at what we’ve discovered, learn tools that can help with your own memories, and for me, the book unexpectedly triggered the recall of memories I think about often and many I thought had been lost—giving this book a life well beyond its pages!

A Story for a Lasting Memory

It is rare to find a book that presents cutting edge science, a moving personal story and practical insights for mental health. Steve Ramirez delivers all three in “How to Change a Memory.” The author’s knack for analogies makes the science accessible to audiences who might not be familiar with the technical jargon, while a keen sense of humor and a poignant emotional experience drive an entertaining narrative. On a practical level, the healing power of positive memories was a revelation that can serve anyone, while experiencing grief is something we all need to learn to deal with. Among the many metaphors, the brain as a musical instrument in the final chapter appeared especially apt. Having had a taste of this work, I can’t wait to hear of new advances in the field. Best of luck to the author, the Ramirez lab and their collaborators!

Thoughtful

Honest and impactful, this book helped me to think about many memories and realize the science behind them. Thank you for sharing your story.