Seminar - 2 hours. This course explores current topics at the crossroads of neuroscience and the law. The course introduces foundational bioethics and some basics of cognitive science. It examines the relationship between social science and the law, notably how empirical research findings are used to design legal institutions. It considers the role of scientific models of human cognition and motivation in the context of legal policy creation or sentencing decisions. It covers topics that include neuroscience evidence at sentencing, brain-based lie detection, tort liability for brain injuries, brain-based enhancement and the boundaries between life and death.
Final Assessment: Paper
Grading Mode: Letter Grading
Graduation Requirements: May satisfy Advanced Writing Requirement with instructor's permission.