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Review
. 2005 Feb;6(2):159-64.
doi: 10.1038/nrn1609.

fMRI in the public eye

Eric Racine  1 , Ofek Bar-Ilan, Judy Illes
Affiliations
Review

fMRI in the public eye

Eric Racine et al. Nat Rev Neurosci. 2005 Feb.

Abstract

The wide dissemination and expanding applications of functional MRI have not escaped the attention of the media or discussion in the wider public arena. From the bench to the bedside, this technology has introduced substantial ethical challenges. Are the boundaries of what it can and cannot achieve being communicated to the public? Are its limitations understood? And given the complexities that are inherent to neuroscience, are current avenues for communication adequate?

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Composition of the sample of articles returned to a search of print media coverage (general and specialized sources combined) of fMRI from January 1991 to June 2004. *Projected value for 2004.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Unidirectional communication in neuroscience. Unidirectional communication is based on an expertise model of knowledge. Conveying accurate information to the public is the primary goal of science communication.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Multidirectional communication in neuroscience. Multidirectional communication encourages open dialogue and the mutual enrichment of all parties. Accuracy of scientific information is a key goal and differences in interpretation promote reflection. Ensuring dynamic inquiry and debate is integral to science and a pluralist democratic society.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

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