False Memory

Memory was long thought to be reliable - what better evidence could there be than the word of an eyewitness to a crime?  But studies conducted over the years have demonstrated a different theory as to how memory works and cast doubt on its reliability. 
We will examine an empirrical study and a case study relating to the concept of how memory works and false memories in particular.  Elizabeth Loftus is a renowned psychologist who has spent decades studying the workings of memory and her famous "car crash" study from 1974 gives us an understanding of how memory can be easily influenced.

The story of Ronald Cotton takes us inside the U.S. criminal justice system and helps to explain how over 230 convicted criminals (mostly for rape and murder)  have been released from prison over the past two decades as part of an effort to help the unjustly accused - most of them convicted, in part, with the help of eyewitness tesitmony.After discussing these two studies and viewing the short video, you should be able to discuss and analyze the limitations of memory. 

Your assignment is to write a 300 word (minimum) review of the case of Ronald Cotton, explaining the general details of the case, the possible reasons for the eyewitness' false memories and your conclusion about the usefulness of this type of evidence in court.  Please include at least two pictures to go with your written review and link at least one related site in your text.