NOVA scienceNOW Season 6 Episode 2
NOVA scienceNOW
Season 6

Ep 2. Can Science Stop Crime?

  • TV-PG
  • October 17, 2012
  • 52 min
  •   (12)

Can Science Stop Crime? is the second episode of the sixth season of NOVA scienceNOW. The episode explores the ways in which science is being used to fight and prevent crime, from developing new forensic technologies to studying the psychology of criminals.

The first segment of the episode focuses on forensic science. Correspondent Jake Ward interviews Dr. Tracey Dawson Cruz, an expert in blood spatter analysis, who explains how the patterns of blood droplets can provide crucial information about the location and direction of a crime. Ward also visits a lab where scientists are developing new methods for analyzing DNA evidence, including a technique that can identify suspects based on just a tiny amount of DNA.

The second segment of the episode looks at how scientists are studying the brains of criminals to try and understand what drives them to commit violent acts. Correspondent Ari Daniel visits Dr. Kent Kiehl, a neuroscientist who has been studying the brains of psychopaths for over a decade. Kiehl explains how brain imaging technology can reveal differences in the brain structure and function of psychopaths, and how this research could ultimately lead to new treatment options for criminals.

The third segment looks at how technology is changing the way police officers do their jobs. Correspondent David Pogue speaks with police officers who are using new tools like drones and predictive analytics to prevent and solve crimes. Pogue also visits a lab where scientists are developing a new weapon in the fight against crime: a laser that can detect traces of drugs and explosives on surfaces like clothing and luggage.

The episode also features a segment about the challenges of involving the public in crime prevention. Correspondent Mireya Mayor speaks with community activists who are working to build bridges between law enforcement and the communities they serve, and highlights the ways in which science can help to bridge these gaps.

Throughout the episode, NOVA scienceNOW highlights the ways in which science is revolutionizing the fight against crime – from new forensic technologies to groundbreaking research into the psychology of criminals. With engaging interviews, behind-the-scenes access to labs and crime scenes, and stunning visuals, Can Science Stop Crime? offers an informative and entertaining look at how science is being used to make our world safer.

Description
Watch NOVA scienceNOW - Can Science Stop Crime? (s6 e2) Online - Watch online anytime: Buy, Rent
NOVA scienceNOW, Season 6 Episode 2, is available to watch and stream on PBS. You can also buy, rent NOVA scienceNOW on demand at Apple TV online.
  • First Aired
    October 17, 2012
  • Content Rating
    TV-PG
  • Runtime
    52 min
  • Language
    English