Cognitive Neuroscience and its Influence

Neuroscience

Refers specifically to the study of the nervous system

Cognitive neuroscience

Investigates the relationship between cognition, neural mechanisms, brain chemistry and brain structure

When was cognitive neuroscience firstly introduced?

The mid 19th century with the discovery that Broca’s area (part of the frontal lobe) is linked to speech production

New technology

fMRI,PET and MRI allow researchers to explain the neurological basis of mental processes

Example of an cognitive neuroscience investigation

Nina Lisofsky et al (2014). The team used fMRI and PET scans to locate a network of brain regions which are activated when lies are told. The prefrontal cortex and and anterior cingulate cortex. Findings can be used in criminal trials to help determine whether an accused person is telling the truth