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content-addressable store

a model of memory, borrowed from computer science, in which a memory is stored and retrieved based on representation of its contents rather than by an arbitrary tag. Knowledge or memory is represented by values along certain dimensions, such as temporal (e.g., last summer) or semantic (a vacation); an effective retrieval cue using the same values along those dimensions will access the information stored.

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Psychology term of the day

May 10th 2024

primary emotion

primary emotion

any one of a limited set of emotions that typically are manifested and recognized universally across cultures. The list of primary emotions varies across different theorists. They often include fear, anger, joy, sadness, disgust, contempt, and surprise; some theorists also include shame, shyness, and guilt. Also called basic emotion; core emotion. Compare secondary emotion.