How Memory Is Reinforced or Forgotten
Reinforcement Signals
Section titled “Reinforcement Signals”Memory is strengthened when it repeatedly proves useful:
- successful retrieval via search,
- repeated co-occurrence in multi-step tool chains,
- traversal through associative random-walk paths.
Weakening Signals
Section titled “Weakening Signals”Memory is weakened when it contributes less over time:
- low usage across long horizons,
- lower utility versus newer or more relevant relations.
Why Forgetting Exists
Section titled “Why Forgetting Exists”Context windows are finite.
Forgetting is not cosmetic human mimicry. It is a practical prioritization mechanism so high-value relations remain accessible while low-value ones become quiet.