Keshikatsu

Keshikatsu is a term originating from Japanese culture that refers to the practice of intentionally erasing or expunging memories. While not a formal scientific or psychological term, it is often explored in fictional narratives, particularly in manga, anime, and literature. The concept typically involves a character or entity deliberately removing specific recollections from their own mind or the minds of others. This act is usually driven by a desire to forget painful experiences, traumatic events, or to achieve a desired state of ignorance or peace.

The methods of keshikatsu vary widely in fiction. They can range from magical spells and advanced technological devices to psychological manipulation or even supernatural abilities. The consequences of keshikatsu are also a common theme, often leading to unforeseen side effects, identity crises, or the resurfacing of suppressed emotions. The ethical implications of altering or erasing memories are frequently examined, questioning the right to inflict such changes and the impact on individual autonomy and personal history. While the term itself is rooted in Japanese fiction, the underlying concept of memory erasure has parallels in discussions of trauma, forgetting, and the nature of consciousness.