What is considered "semantic memory"?

Semantic memory refers to a type of long-term memory that is focused on facts, concepts, knowledge, and information about the world that is not tied to personal experiences. This form of memory enables individuals to remember information such as the meaning of words, historical facts, and scientific principles. It is distinct from episodic memory, which is related to personal experiences and events that an individual has encountered in their life.

This understanding of semantic memory plays a crucial role in cognitive psychology, as it emphasizes the organization and retrieval of knowledge independent of context or specific life events. For instance, knowing that Paris is the capital of France or that a cat is a type of animal falls under the realm of semantic memory.

The other options provide descriptions that do not align with the definition of semantic memory. For instance, personal experiences are specifically linked to episodic memory, while sensory information refers to the initial stages of memory processing rather than the storage of knowledge and facts. Emotional memory relates to memories influenced by emotional states, which is a different category from the factual content typical of semantic memory.