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Memory and Trauma - PHI00115M

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  • Department: Philosophy
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: M
  • Academic year of delivery: 2026-27

Module summary

In this module you will explore puzzles and problems that arise when we think about memory and trauma and the relations between them. These include nature, variety, and classification of traumatic intrusions; the implications of these intrusions for our understanding of memory; the ethical implications of interacting with trauma victims; the cognitive and epistemic implications of trauma for victims; and how trauma impacts victims’ emotional experience.

Professional requirements

N/A

Related modules

N/A

Elective Pre-Requisites

These pre-requisites only apply to students taking this module as an elective.

N/A

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 2 2026-27

Module aims

To explore some ongoing philosophical debates, and debates in other relevant literature, about memory, trauma, and relations between them, and to develop a detailed understanding of these debates.

  • To develop the following skills:
  • Working your way to an understanding of challenging philosophical and interdisciplinary material in an autonomous way.
  • Evaluating ideas and arguments methodically and in detail.
  • Discussing module material with others, working together to understand and critically evaluate ideas and arguments.
  • Developing your own view on a puzzle or problem and assembling a detailed, reasoned case for that view.
  • Independent research skills.
  • Making connections amongst a range of interrelated debates.

Module learning outcomes

By the end of this module students should be able to:

  • Understand some puzzles, problems, and theories in the philosophy of memory and philosophical issues around trauma and explain those in clear and precise terms, showing critical awareness and an ability to synthesize information and ideas from a variety of sources.
  • Develop and articulate detailed arguments for and against particular theories in the philosophy of memory, philosophical issues around trauma, and relations between the two.
  • Make a measured judgement about which are the most plausible answers to some questions in the philosophy of memory and philosophical issues related to trauma, based on a careful consideration of the arguments and evidence, and make a sustained and detailed case for that judgement.
  • Be able to read and critically engage with historical and contemporary work on the philosophy of memory and on philosophical issues related to trauma in an autonomous way.
  • Have further developed their skills in philosophical discussion and writing
  • Be able to prepare an extended essay that goes beyond the core framework that is provided by lectures, seminar readings, and discussions, and which shows independence and critical reflection in the development of arguments.

Module content

Indicative topics:

  • Is the recollection of traumatic experiences a distinctive form of remembering?

  • Are trauma-related nightmares memories of traumatic events?

  • What are intrusive memories and are they peculiar to trauma?

  • How is mental imagery related to post-traumatic experiences?

  • Are victims typically trustworthy sources of testimony?

  • How does trauma affect us in our capacities as knowers?

  • Do victims have a duty to remember, even when it causes them great distress to do so?

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 100.0

Special assessment rules

None

Additional assessment information

N/A

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 100.0

Module feedback

All formative and summative feedback will be returned in accordance with University and Departmental policy.

Indicative reading

Brison, S. J. (2002) Aftermath. (Chapter 4: Acts of Memory). Princeton University Press.

Caruth, C. (1995). Introduction. In Caruth, C., (Ed.), Trauma: Explorations in Memory (pp. 3–12). Baltimore and London: John Hopkins University Press.

Goldwasser, S., & Springle, A. (2023). Trauma, trust, and competent testimony. Philosophical Psychology, 37, 1.

Kidd, I., Spencer, L., & Carel, H. (2025). Epistemic injustice in psychiatric research and practice. Philosophical Psychology, 38, 2.

Puddifoot, K., & Sandelind, C. (2024). Knowing your past: Trauma, stress, and mnemonic epistemic injustice. Journal of Social Philosophy, 2024, 1-21

Ratcliffe, M. (2017). Real hallucinations, psychiatric illness, intentionality, and the interpersonal world (Chapter 6). MIT Press.

Shobe, K. K. & Kihlstrom, J. F. (1997). Is traumatic memory special? Current Directions in Psychological Science, 6(3), 70–74.

Stoneham, T. (2019). Dreaming, phenomenal character, and acquaintance. In J. Knowles, & T. Raleigh (eds) Acquaintance: New essays. OUP.

van der Kolk, B. & Fisler, R. (1995). Dissociation and the fragmentary nature of traumatic memories: Overview and exploratory study. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 8(4), 505–525.


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University constantly explores ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary. In some instances it may be appropriate for the University to notify and consult with affected students about module changes in accordance with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.