Memory Loss...

I'm a little bit confused on memory loss. How come Lockhart didn't know his name, where he was, what magic was, and all that stuff, but he knew he was a human, and stuff like that. If you didn't remember anything, would that include the fact that you're alive. Not remembering anything would make everything new to you... including functioning, or speaking, or walking, or anything along those lines, right?

What do you guys think?

I think you've got something there, I've always wondered about that, when people get amnesia and stuff, I always wonder...

Perhaps the spell affected several parts of his brain, but not all of them... or as it was performed with a faulty wand, it erased most of his memories, but not all of them

I'm inclined to agree with that nothing else makes much sence...

i see what u mean but i think that it woud leave the basic instincts. but other then that i think it just erases ur memory to an extent

Scientifically, there are different parts of the brain that control speech, movement, etc. and it's a combination of functions that results in conscious thinking.

Other than the obvious plot device explanation, there's the matter of the ambiguity in a back-fired spell, and the fact that the Obliviate, when we have seen it used, is about erasing memories of events, of knowledge...but that doesn't necessarily mean ability.

Hmmm... a new thought. Like the spell was specifically designed to go after higher functioning stuff. I love new thoughts. Must process...

yes because (correct me if im wrong) hermione used the obliviate spell on the two death eaters in that restraunt or diner in the begining of 7. and harry said so that they didnt know they were there. so it is just to erase memories