Brains on Trial with Alan Alda

Hosted by Alan Alda, director Graham Chedd's PBS-aired two-part documentary literally puts the human brain on trial, serving up a fictitious hearing in order weigh questions about neuroscience and the law. The "case" here involves an 18-year-old male caught up in a convenience store robbery, who impulsively shoots and gravely injures the wife of the store owner. Part one, "Determining Guilt," illustrates how technology helps us to peer inside the brain in order to determine what people are thinking in rash moments (intent and state of mind are important factors when a crime is committed). Alda visits a university lab where a "functional MRI" is used to perform brain scans that help evaluate whether a person is telling the truth or lies (scientists debate the pros and cons of this approach as it relates to the courtroom). Also covered is the reliability of witness testimony, with the film noting that many of us have some racial or tribal bias, and are less likely to believe or empathize with those outside our familial groups. Which areas of the brain inform bias, and will the new mind-reading technology be an aid to jurors or just create a confusing mess for the legal system? Part two, “Deciding Punishment," notes that the immature brains of teenage offenders often suffer from poor impulse control, bad decision-making and planning, and peer pressure. Can brain scans detect remorse in youths awaiting sentence? The filmmakers follow a lab on wheels to a New Mexico prison, where psychopaths are examined for traits of aggression and lack of empathy. Ultimately, while brain science yields insights, the question remains: will it stand up in court, and perhaps more important, does it serve the ends of justice? Refreshingly free of polemics, this thought-provoking documentary is recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (S. Rees)