The potential of fMRI is extraordinary. It allows us to observe brain activity in real time, build an understanding of thoughts and motivations, and discern unconscious biases. Barbara J. Sahakian and Julia Gottwald explain the science, and consider the ethical implications of using these techniques.
Looks at the parts of the brain involved in making decisions. Sahakian and LaBuzetta identify a difference between 'hot' and 'cold' decision making, depending on the relative role played by emotions and reason. They then consider what happens when these abilities are impaired by brain injury or illness--the extreme behaviors that can result, such as impulsively spending your entire savings on shoes, or not being able to decide whether to go out of the house. Several drugs are now used to alleviate these problems in patients. But they have also been found to improve concentration and achievement in healthy individuals. The authors leave us with the big ethical dilemma raised by these 'smart drugs': should they be used by the healthy? What about the issues of accessibility, fairness and coercion? Should they be accessible to all, or barred except for those with medical conditions? --From publisher description.