The Better Brain

During my reading about the doping and steroid use in baseball, I've been reminded of a video series that I really enjoy: Ethics in America. There are two versions that you can watch through Annenberg Media's site. You'll have to sign up for a free subscription, but this will give you access to a wealth of educational videos.

The Ethics in America series (I and II) are certainly my favorites. Each episode in the series gathers a roundtable of VIPs (including Justices O'Connor and Scalia) to take on a certain ethical topic. There is a moderator that walks around and creates hypotheticals, giving each panel member a role. Through the series, the moderator teases out the ethical issues, pitting viewpoint against viewpoint. It reminds me of what law school is when it's at its best.

"A Better Brain: The Ethics of Neuro-Enhancement" is a great episode that discusses the use of brain-enhancing medicine to do better in school or at work. Illegal steroids and banned substances are an easy answer, but the issues tackled in this video are more difficult. Give the series a chance; this is a great way to think through an issue and to learn the art of persuasion.