The Neural Basis of Aggression and its Treatment by Psychosurgery

Abstract

The limbic system and its connections provide the neural basis for aggressive behaviour. Violent individuals may differ quantitively or qualitively from normal. Many of the latter suffer from epilepsy. In some the epileptiform discharges from the amygdala can only be recorded using depth electrodes. It can be taken that the control of abnormal degrees of violent behaviour is now possible. Should such operations be used? If so who should have them? What precautions need to be taken that such operations are not abused? How can informed consent be obtained? The development of new surgical techniques make these questions pertinent if not urgent.