Functional scan imaging, and other technologies are providing us with direct access to brain processes. Mapping the activity and structure of the brain has given us unprecedented insight into human nature: we can watch the brain develop and respond to stimuli, and see how a mind can flourish, learn, and imagine. We can also observe how our minds can be damaged by the trauma and neglect that lead to impaired thinking and behavior.

Social and cognitive neuroscientists are using these tools to pinpoint areas of the brain that are activated during moral dilemmas and decision-making; to study how the mind creates categories and how the brain can distort perceptions and memory leading to false assumptions about other people. These are the neural mechanisms that underlie stereotyping, implicit bias, and prejudice—the building blocks of hate.
 
In this section, we will describe, in simple terms, many of the research tools (with intimidating technical acronyms such as fMRI, MEG, PET, SPECT, TMS) that have transformed our search for understanding.


New Tools for Research on Hate and Prejudice