Human memory isn’t a single, monolithic thing. It’s a collection of interconnected systems working in concert.
Two crucial parts of this memory ecosystem are episodic and semantic memory. Both fall under the umbrella of “explicit” memory, meaning they involve the conscious recall of facts and experiences. This is in contrast to “implicit” memory, which handles unconscious recall and learned skills.
So, what exactly sets semantic vs episodic memory apart? This article will explore the key differences between these two memory systems, how they interact, and what that means for your daily life.