Discussion question on impact of neuroscience has had on the field of cognitive psychology

Scientists have engaged in study to determine whether or not the parts of the brain specialize in one task exclusively, performing an action repetitively like factory workers on a traditional assembly line. Some theorize that individual neural regions specialize in various tasks, at times even “contracting” one another for collaborative interactions (Kanwisher, 2010).

However the brain conducts its processing, the manner in which this occurs directly influences how humans appear on the “outside.” Thus, if human attitudes toward ethnically different groups correspond with “increased activity in the amygdala, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, and anterior cingulate cortex,” (2008, p. 65) a deeper understanding of this activity may correlate with greater awareness of the mechanisms behind stereotyping and prejudice.

It is now possible to examine questions such as these using the arsenal of research methodologies available to cognitive research. Some examples of these methodologies include functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI), Positron Emission Tomography (PET), Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and Magnetoencephalograpy (MEG).

For this Discussion, you identify a major impact of neuroscience on cognitive psychology. You then explain impacts of neuroscience on social change. You also consider a related question you find interesting and describe effective research methods for investigating it. Locate five articles published in the last five years in peer-reviewed journals that document research involving questions and methodologies that you find interesting.

With these thoughts in mind:

Post by Day 4 a brief explanation of one major impact neuroscience has had on the field of cognitive psychology. Explain how neuroscience might influence social change. Then research one question related to cognitive psychology that is interesting to you. Finally, discuss the research method you would use to investigate that question and explain why your selected method might be most suitable.

Be sure to support your postings and responses with specific references to the Learning Resources.

Read a selection of your colleagues’ postings.

Respond by Day 6 to at least one of your colleagues’ postings in one or more of the following ways:

• Share an insight from having read your colleague’s posting.
• Offer and support an opinion.
• Make a suggestion.
• Expand on your colleague’s posting.

Return to this Discussion in a few days to read the responses to your initial posting. Note what you have learned and/or any insights you have gained as a result of the comments your colleagues made.