Spotless minds: could you swallow a memory-wiping pill?

A pill to erase bad memories. Doesn't it just sound so tempting? Surely everyone in the midst of a painful breakup has fantasised about wiping out all recollection of the relationship, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind-style? Perhaps you'd like to delete the sweaty-palmed feeling of realising you've just sent a humiliatingly personal email to the entire office, or banish any recall of the day you turned up at school with your skirt tucked into your knickers?

In reality, the drug in the news today is more likely to be used to help those suffering from conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder after devastating experiences such as terrorist attacks or natural disasters, or other emotional problems. But the idea of tampering with the inner workings of the mind has raised concerns about the psychological consequences for individuals involved, and even the potential practical effects on society