Memorials: Collective memory, distributed cognition and urban environment

Memoriales: memoria colectiva, cognición distribuida y ambiente urbano

Abstract

This article investigates how memorials shape collective memory, highlighting the interplay between biological, sociocultural, and technological factors. Memorials are intentionally created to generate meaning of the past according to the present interests and motivations. Individuals, groups, networks and institutions design and build memorials to not just shape perceptions of history but also steer collective perspectives on a shared future. We argue that memorials are external memory system, both limiting and shaping the recollection of the event being commemorated. Thus, the collective memories of the visitors to memorials are the outcome of outcome distributed cognitive networks, where human minds interact with external memory systems. We showcase how two cities, Buenos Aires and Berlin, have transformed into hubs of collective remembrance. Following this, we introduce cognitive ethnography as a methodology to explore how collective remembering emerges from visitors' interactions with memorials.