Topic: Science in court: Head case

[sam]

http://www.nature.com/news/2010/100317/full/464340a.html

Last year, functional magnetic resonance imaging made its debut in court. Virginia Hughes asks whether the technique is ready to weigh in on the fate of murderers.

[Clive]

Perhaps such a technique could be used on John Venables.  That might settle the argument as to whether he should be jailed or go free. 

[Rik]

Is there an argument?

[Clive]

Isn't there always?  They are trying to say he could not be responsible for his actions at such a young age.  But I would not like to give him the benefit of the doubt.  I'm now a bad person because I've said that.    

[Rik]

You are, Clive, but so's about 80% of the population.

[Simon]

The lawyers would say anything to get someone off.  He's obviously a very dangerous and damaged character who should never be allowed out again.