Phylogenetic and epigenetic memory from past experiences
INTRODUCTION
Every experience has the potential to become a memory; It is just a past experience. Memory is not only found in the brain or muscles but permeates many biological and non-biological systems. It governs how organisms, cells, ecosystems, and even non-living systems store, adapt, and respond (or receive, store and recall) and respond to stimuli based on past experiences.
This raises an essential question: Which past experiences? It encompasses not only this life but also those of previous lives. This is not about the concept of ‘reincarnation’; rather, It is simply the broader genetic memory that combines species-specific memory with parental genetic memory
Phylogenetic memory refers to the inherited behaviors, instincts, and tendencies that are encoded in the species' genome over the course of evolution. It represents a form of memory accumulated over many generations, shaped by natural selection, and passed down through the species. Phylogenetic as an evolutionary memory is responsible for certain instinctive behaviors, like a baby’s reflex to grasp or suckle, birds migrating, or spiders spinning webs.
Epigenetic memory refers to changes in gene expression caused by environmental factors that do not alter the DNA sequence itself. These changes, however, can be passed down to subsequent generations. Epigenetic memory reflects adaptations to specific environmental conditions experienced by an individual or their ancestors.
These are not concepts discussed in mainstream scientific literature compared to other forms of memory, and it's often more related to philosophical or theoretical discussions.
Trauma or specific experiences of ancestors can influence gene expression in subsequent generations through a phenomenon known as epigenetic inheritance (1). Studies in animals, particularly mice, have demonstrated that certain learned fears or behavioral traits can be transmitted across generations (2). Even, environmental stressors encountered by parent plants can result in genetic modifications that affect future generations (3).
While both concepts reflect the transmission of information across generations, phylogenetic memory is ancient and species-wide, epigenetic memory is more immediate and influenced by the environment within a few generations.
Ontogenetic memory refers to the development of an individual organism (from fertilization to adulthood) and how it forms memories throughout its life. This kind of memory involves personal experiences accumulated over an individual’s lifespan, shaping their behavior, cognition, and skills.
Ontogenetic memory is not transmissible and unique to an individual. While phylogenetic and epigenetic memories are rooted in biological and genetic transmission, ontogenetic memory reflects the individual's unique psychological development, influenced by personal history, learning, and environmental factors.
I personally categorize them as “Source memory” which refers to the origins of memory formation, highlighting how past experiences influence our present behavior, cognition, and identity.
References
Yehuda, Rachel, et al. "Holocaust exposure induced intergenerational effects on FKBP5 methylation." Biological Psychiatry 80, no. 5 (2016): 372-380.
Dias, Brian G., and Kerry J. Ressler. "Parental olfactory experience influences behavior and neural structure in subsequent generations." Nature Neuroscience 17, no. 1 (2014): 89-96.
Mirouze, M., & Paszkowski, I. (2011). Research on genetic memory in plants under stress conditions.
