Neuroscience Case Study

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Introduction
Approximately 1,000 brain and nervous system disorders are directly responsible for more hospitalizations and lost productivity than any other comparable disease group. (Shen, 2013, p. 655). In addition, these disorders restrict criminals from refraining to engage in malicious activity. This inability to distinguish right from wrong is a result of the individual’s consciousness being disorientated while committing a crime. Neuroscience, the study of nerves and how nerves affect learning and behavior, is a relatively new science that can provide the justice system with insight on why criminals act differently from law abiding citizens in particular scenarios. Research in neuroscience shows a strong correlation between brain function and a human’s personhood which includes individual characteristics and cognitive thinking patterns. Neuroscience is capable of providing evidence of a person's “future dangerousness” in order to deter future altercations. The understanding of a human’s thought process through neuroscience should be permissible in the courtroom for more informed court rulings and to transition in to a more progressive approach of criminal punishment.
Background of Neuroscience
Neuroscience consists of an extensive background of research that has led to various discoveries regarding the human brain. The human brain is the mediator for every aspect of the human body. The brain dictates a wide range of functions spanning from emotion and memory to heart rate and blood flow. The brain is also responsible for how we think, believe, dream and even aspire. A human’s reactions to medical treatments are even processed through the brain. The brain is the sole organ that provides all of the functions that comprise a...

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...ails about the brain but will not improve the existing legal principles. It is assumed that the current legal principles in place are still in effect because they provide us with a sensible version of justice. Some fear allowing neuroscience in the courtroom may alter traditional methods that the system has used consistently. The new discoveries in neuroscience will not change the law; they will simply transform the public’s opinion on civil responsibility leading to more effective court rulings and how to approach a more progressive punishment that benefits society. The prosecutors and defense attorneys will both have the ability to benefit from neuroscience. The main factors lie predominately in the history of the criminal, the thoughts and recollections of the judge and/or jurors, as well as the lawyers’ abilities to apply the best case possible for their client.

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