Are semantic memory and episodic memory distinct systems

Abstract

In a recent study, Shoben, Wescourt, and Smith reported data concerning the semantic-episodic memory distinction proposed by Tulving. On the basis of these data they suggested that the representation for semantic information is different from that for episodic information. In the present article, we point out a number of logical problems with Shoben et al.'s arguments and suggest that because of these problems their results do not provide strong evidence in favor of a distinction between semantic and episodic memory systems. In addition, we present an experiment the results of which argue against the claim that the representation for semantic information is different from that for episodic information. We suggest that the available data do not provide strong support for the view that semantic and episodic memory are distinct systems.