Brains on Trial with Alan Alda

Brains on Trial with Alan Alda (2013)

EndedDocumentary show

Brains on Trial with Alan Alda takes a fictitious crime-a convenience store robbery that goes horribly wrong - and builds from it a gripping courtroom drama. As the trial unfolds it takes us into the brains of the major participants - defendant, witnesses, jurors, judge - while Alan Alda visits the laboratories of some dozen neuroscientists exploring how brains work when they become entangled with the law. The research he discovers raises the controversial question: How does our rapidly expanding ability to peer into people's minds and decode their thoughts and feelings affect trials like the one we are watching in the future? And should it?

Network
Scheduleevery Wednesday at 22:00 (60 min)

Last Episode

Deciding Punishment
Season 1Episode 260 min

Deciding Punishment

Part 2 of 2. The fictional trial reaches the penalty phase, with the judge hearing from the court-appointed psychiatrist, victim's husband and defendant. Alan Alda, meanwhile, learns how neuroscience is already influencing the sentencing of defendants.
Sept. 18, 2013

Recent Episodes

EpisodeNameAirdate
S01E02Deciding PunishmentSept. 18, 2013
S01E01Determining GuiltSept. 11, 2013
View all episodesView all seasons

Frequently Asked Questions  Warning: Spoilers

When did the TV show 'Brains on Trial with Alan Alda' premiere?

'Brains on Trial with Alan Alda' premiered on September 11, 2013.

What is the premise of 'Brains on Trial with Alan Alda'?

The show explores the intersection of neuroscience and the justice system, examining how brain science can affect the understanding of criminal behavior and its implications in the courtroom.

How many episodes were there in the first season of 'Brains on Trial with Alan Alda'?

The first season of 'Brains on Trial with Alan Alda' consisted of two episodes.

Who are the experts featured on the show?

The show features a range of experts including neuroscientists, psychologists, legal scholars, and criminal justice professionals.

What are some of the topics covered in 'Brains on Trial with Alan Alda'?

The show explores topics such as the influence of brain abnormalities on behavior, the reliability of eyewitness testimony, and the use of brain scans as evidence in court.

Are there any reenactments or dramatizations in the show?

Yes, 'Brains on Trial with Alan Alda' includes reenactments and dramatizations to illustrate various scenarios and concepts.

How does the show incorporate scientific research?

The show incorporates scientific research by featuring experiments, case studies, and interviews with leading experts in the field of neuroscience.

Does 'Brains on Trial with Alan Alda' present any real-life court cases?

Yes, the show presents real-life court cases that involve controversial brain science evidence.

What is the overall tone of the show?

The show takes an objective and informative approach, exploring the complex relationship between neuroscience and the legal system.

Are there any ethical considerations discussed on the show?

Yes, 'Brains on Trial with Alan Alda' delves into the ethical implications of using brain science in the courtroom, including issues of privacy, discrimination, and fairness.

How does the show engage viewers?

The show engages viewers through thought-provoking discussions, interactive experiments, and compelling storytelling.

Is 'Brains on Trial with Alan Alda' suitable for a general audience?

Yes, the show is designed to be accessible to a wide range of viewers, regardless of their background in neuroscience or law.

Did 'Brains on Trial with Alan Alda' receive any critical acclaim?

Yes, the show was praised for its unique approach to exploring the intersection of neuroscience and the justice system, and its ability to present complex concepts in an engaging manner.

Are there any plans for future seasons of 'Brains on Trial with Alan Alda'?

As of now, there have been no announcements regarding future seasons of the show.

Cast

Alan Alda

Alan Alda

plays Himself
View all cast

Characters

Himself

Himself

played by Alan Alda
View all characters

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