MIT Study Shows Magnetic Pulses Can Change Abilty to Tell Right From Wrong

March 30, 2010

Study: Magnetic Waves Alter Moral Compass

MIT Researchers Find That Magnetic Pulses Directed at Brain Change People's Ability to Tell Right from Wrong

(CBS)  A device that emits an invisible beam affecting a person's ability to tell right from wrong might sound like the kind of weapon a comic book villain would use to wreak havoc around the world.

Scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology say such a device allowed them to observe the effects magnetic rays have on a person's sense of morality.

In a new study, volunteers were subjected to magnetic pulses just above and behind of the right ear, focusing on the area of the brain believed to be the area controlling morality. The pulses were intended to block cell activity that contributed to the volunteers' sense of right and wrong.

MIT's researchers explain the study in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. 

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