Topic: Brain Mapping

A preview of a "Nova" special on the roots of violence is criticized for its focus on brain mapping and potential pharmaceutical interventions for "rampage killers." The hosts view this as a move toward pre-emptive social control. They also briefly mention reports of a new SARS-like virus and bird flu outbreaks in Mexico and Germany.

A segment from the program "Nova" is referenced, demonstrating how high-powered electromagnets can be used to trigger or disable specific brain functions. The hosts note that scientists can map the brain to make a subject's thumb twitch or cause them to become a "babbling idiot." They express concern over the potential applications of this technology.