In this paper we deal with a critical discussion about memory and its place at organizational studies, more specifically in business history. To think about memory allows thinking the idea of any dialogue about past and present be neutral, once expresses a value attribute system. Memory makes possible a world (re)elaboration, changing and supporting existing realities. In this sense, as Ricoeur (2007) argue, the excess or lack of memory (and interest about it) represent something. To discuss memory appropriation by companies implies a rescue of a historical perspective and also a critics about managers' option about what to remember - and what to forget. It isn't neutral, thus, rescue of business past: this process follows a wider and deeper intention than just to illustrate chronologically past happenings. It refers to the legitimacy of some actors do define, unilaterally, what must be remembered in that context, directing to organizational studies the job of widening the comprehension of organizational dynamics, allowing the telling of other histories by that ones who have voices and haven't shown them.
organizational memory; business history; past social formalization