Why can’t we remember exact smells but can remember how they made us feel?
Our olfactory pathway (pathway from the "smell" to what our brain does with it) is tied much more closely with our limbic system (emotion system) than all other senses. There are structures called the fornix, cingulate gyrus, amygdala, and septal area (among others) that our smell information run…
The Short Answer
Our olfactory pathway (pathway from the "smell" to what our brain does with it) is tied much more closely with our limbic system (emotion system) than all other senses. There are structures called the fornix, cingulate gyrus, amygdala, and septal area (among others) that our smell information runs through. These areas are associated with both emotions and memories. That's why they'll evoke an emotional response, not simply a thought. Another commenter said that smelling something makes us "picture" it, which triggers emotion is incorrect. Yes, humans are visual creatures, but not emotionally. We're visual so we can move around, not get hit by buses, and take in our complete surroundings without trying to hear or smell 20,000 things at once. If you need convincing as to smell vs. sight on emotional response/memory, Google a picture of a pie. Now, walk into a bakery (eyes closed for science). One will be much more pleasant than the other. Cheers.
Analysis
Key Concepts: Smell, pathway, system
This explanation focuses on smell, pathway, system and spans 157 words across 12 sentences. At 131% above the average Psychology explanation (68 words), this is one of the more thorough answers in this category, reflecting the complexity of the underlying question.
What This Answer Covers
The explanation opens with: “Our olfactory pathway (pathway from the "smell" to what our brain does with it) is tied much more closely with our limbi” It then elaborates by presenting a contrasting perspective, ultimately building toward a complete picture across 12 connected points.
How This Compares in Psychology
Ranked #10 of 500 Psychology questions by answer depth (top 3%). This places it in the comprehensive tier — the top quarter of most thoroughly answered questions. Questions at this depth typically involve multi-faceted topics requiring nuanced explanation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a simple explanation for why we remember exact smells but can remember how they made us feel?
Our olfactory pathway (pathway from the "smell" to what our brain does with it) is tied much more closely with our limbic system (emotion system) than all other senses. There are structures called the fornix, cingulate gyrus, amygdala, and septal…
How detailed is this explanation compared to similar Psychology questions?
This is one of the most thorough answer at 157 words, ranked #10 of 500 Psychology questions by depth. The key concepts covered are smell, pathway, system.
What approach does this answer take to explain we remember exact smells but can remember how they made us f?
The explanation uses contrasting perspectives across 157 words. It is categorized under Psychology and addresses the question through 1 analytical lens.