Book Title: Modern Forensic Tools and Devices: Trends in Criminal Investigation
Editors: Mr. Ravi Kumar, Ms. Nandini Katare, Don Caeiro, and Dr. Surbhi Girdhar
Chapter: 16
DOI: https://doi.org/10.59646/658/16
Author: Vismaya SR
Abstract
The burgeoning field of neuroscientific techniques offers transformative potential for criminal investigations, moving beyond traditional methods to probe the intricate workings of the human brain. This chapter explores the foundational principles, applications, and inherent limitations of polygraph examinations and advanced brain mapping technologies in forensic contexts, examining their scientific validity and the complex legal frameworks that govern their admissibility. A critical analysis will be provided on the efficacy of these methods in accurately detecting deception and assessing mental states, particularly considering the variable reliability of techniques like polygraphs (Taha et al., 2025). In contrast, newer brain imaging techniques directly investigate neural activity associated with deception, potentially offering more robust evidence than peripheral physiological responses. Furthermore, the integration of artificial intelligence with these neurotechnologies is enhancing our comprehension of brain function and its implications for legal applications, such as identifying pain and deciphering neuronal activity (Bhattacharya, 2025). This expanded understanding of the brain’s complexities is increasingly being leveraged to predict human behavior and decision-making, offering novel avenues for investigative and judicial processes. However, the growing reliance on such advanced neuroscientific tools also raises significant professional and public skepticism regarding their validity and ethical implications, particularly concerning the accuracy and appropriate application of neuroscientific evidence in legal settings (Fernando et al., 2023). This chapter aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the scientific underpinnings and practical applications of neuroscientific tools in criminal investigations, while simultaneously addressing the profound ethical and legal challenges they pose (Luber et al., 2009). Therefore, a thorough examination of these methodologies is crucial to discern their legitimate role and limitations within the criminal justice system, especially concerning individual rights and forensic reliability. This exploration will delve into specific neuroscientific tools such as positron emission tomography, electroencephalography, functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), evaluating their utility in understanding brain responses to stimuli relevant to criminal events, truth, and deception (Fernando et al., 2023; Soto & Borbón, 2022). These advanced neuroimaging techniques offer distinct insights into neural activity, ranging from metabolic changes to electrical oscillations, thereby providing a multifaceted approach to assessing cognitive states pertinent to forensic investigations.