Scanning Brainwaves to Read the Mind

For centuries people have used many different techniques to try to look inside the human mind and unlock its secrets. Brainwaves were first detected electronically years ago, but much of what has been learnt was only possible by physically entering the skull.

Today at Aston University, researchers are employing new types of brain scanning technology to rapidly advance our understanding of the human brain, in totally non-invasive means.

By using Magneto-Encephalography (MEG) and Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (FMRI) they can locate brainwaves and the pattern of oxygen use in different areas of the brain and have begun to map brain functions.

They are beginning to learn how different parts of the brain work together, and eventually may learn how thoughts and memories are built up.

In the meantime their work is proving valuable in clinical uses, in planning brain surgery, and helping to understand illnesses like epilepsy and Alzheimer’s disease.