The Dream Preview Theory: Filtering Memories During Sleep

A Functional Memory Filtering Hypothesis

Author : Faran Gill

Affiliation : Independent Researcher, Pakistan

Date : 13 / June / 2025

Abstract

This Theory proposes a new cognitive theory suggesting that dreams serve as a mechanism for previewing memories before deletion, functioning similarly to a digital file system that shows a preview before confirming permanent deletion. The theory, called the "Dream Preview Theory," hypothesizes that during sleep, the brain enters a review state, scanning stored memory fragments, subconscious imagery, and sensory data collected throughout waking life. The emotional intensity of these previews may determine whether a memory is archived, suppressed, or discarded. This paper presents the logic behind the theory, its relation to memory consolidation, and how it aligns with observed dream phenomena and existing neurological frameworks.

Introduction

The nature of dreams has fascinated scientists, philosophers, and artists for centuries. Modern neuroscience has proposed several competing theories on why humans dream, from random neural firings to emotionally driven simulations. This paper introduces a novel perspective: dreams may serve a functional purpose of previewing memories before deletion, similar to how digital systems offer a preview before confirming permanent deletion of data. This theory was developed independently through personal observation, introspection, and logical reasoning, without prior exposure to academic literature or established dream science frameworks at the time of its conception. The original concept was formulated between 2019 and 2021 and has been formally documented in 2025.

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Unlocking the Secrets of Dreams and Memory
The Dream Preview Theory proposes that our dreams serve a powerful purpose beyond randomness or symbolism. This independent research explores how the human brain filters, prioritizes, and discards memories during sleep — acting like a subconscious editor. Dive into this neuroscience-inspired framework that merges emotion, memory, and cognition with theoretical clarity.