How do we know that amnesics like H. M. can store new memories?
They show relatively intact implicit memory functioning. For example, they can improve on skills tasks (such as playing a video game).
Although amnesics’ implicit memories are not accessible, they can access their episodic memories.
Researchers measured H. M.’s brain activity as he attempted to memorize new information.
H. M.’s memory improved as his brain lesion gradually healed, and as a result, his performance on tests of implicit and episodic memory improved over time.
