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memory illusion

Memory illusion refers to the phenomenon where a person remembers something inaccurately or recalls events that never occurred. In the context of general knowledge, this can happen when facts are misremembered due to suggestive information, common misconceptions, or the blending of different memories. For example, people might confidently assert false details about a historical event, thinking they are correct. This occurs because our memories are not perfect recordings; they are reconstructive, influenced by our beliefs, experiences, and external cues, leading to distortions in what we think we know.