what is episodic memory?

Episodic memory is the type of long-term memory that enables a person to recall specific personal experiences or events, including the time, place, emotions, and other contextual details associated with those events. It is often described as the ability to "mentally travel back in time" to relive past moments, such as remembering one's first day at school or a birthday party. Episodic memory is autobiographical and provides a rich, detailed sense of personal history and identity. It differs from semantic memory, which involves general knowledge and facts rather than personal experiences. The concept was first introduced by psychologist Endel Tulving in 1972, who highlighted that episodic memory entails a subjective sense of time, connection to the self, and a special consciousness called autonoetic consciousness that accompanies remembering. This type of memory is crucial to daily life, helping people learn from past events and maintain a continuous sense of self over time.