[2603.29023] Human-Like Lifelong Memory: A Neuroscience-Grounded Architecture for Infinite Interaction

Computer Science > Computation and Language arXiv:2603.29023 (cs) [Submitted on 30 Mar 2026] Title:Human-Like Lifelong Memory: A Neuroscience-Grounded Architecture for Infinite Interaction Authors:Diego C. Lerma-Torres (Universidad de Guanajuato) View a PDF of the paper titled Human-Like Lifelong Memory: A Neuroscience-Grounded Architecture for Infinite Interaction, by Diego C. Lerma-Torres (Universidad de Guanajuato) View PDF HTML (experimental) Abstract:Large language models lack persistent, structured memory for long-term interaction and context-sensitive retrieval. Expanding context windows does not solve this: recent evidence shows that context length alone degrades reasoning by up to 85% - even with perfect retrieval. We propose a bio-inspired memory framework grounded in complementary learning systems theory, cognitive behavioral therapy's belief hierarchy, dual-process cognition, and fuzzy-trace theory, organized around three principles: (1) Memory has valence, not just content - pre-computed emotional-associative summaries (valence vectors) organized in an emergent belief hierarchy inspired by Beck's cognitive model enable instant orientation before deliberation; (2) Retrieval defaults to System 1 with System 2 escalation - automatic spreading activation and passive priming as default, with deliberate retrieval only when needed, and graded epistemic states that address hallucination structurally; and (3) Encoding is active, present, and feedback-dependent - a thal...