Genetic memory
- Dr. Vidic: "Our DNA functions as an archive. It contains not only genetic instructions passed down from previous generations, but memories as well. The memories of our ancestors."
- Desmond: "And the Animus lets you decode and read these DNA files."
- —Vidic explaining genetic memory concept to Desmond
Genetic memory is the controversial theory that the memories of one's ancestors are genetically passed on to subsequent generations. In the Assassin's Creed universe, genetic memory exists, and plays a critical role in the plot.
The Theory
The theory is controversial. Proponents point out examples of what seem to be genetic memory happening in reality, such as birds knowing where to migrate in the winter, and other forms of instinct.
- "What if I told you the human body not only housed an individual's memories, but the memories of his ancestors as well? Genetic memory, if you will. Migration, hibernation, reproduction. How do animals know when and where to go? What to do?"
- ―Dr. Warren Vidic
However, a mechanism for the preservation of memories in DNA has not been found.
The Animus
- Main article: Animus
In the world of Assassin's Creed, genetic memory exists. The Animus is a machine developed to read a subject's genetic memory, and, from it, create a simulation of the ancestor's life that the subject can interact with, "playing" as the ancestor.
In Assassin's Creed, the Animus is used by Abstergo Industries on Desmond Miles to decode the memories of his ancestor, Altaïr, who lived during the Third Crusade. In Assassin's Creed II, it is again used upon Desmond, this time to learn about his later ancestor Ezio Auditore da Firenze, who lived during the Renaissance. Before Desmond Miles, Abstergo had already used the Animus on 16 different subjects.
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