In The neurobiology of punishment, the authors believe it is now possible to “sketch the beginnings of a neurobiological model of punishment.” The research so far focuses on economic games, so neuroeconomists will be delighted.
If you have not been introduced to that field, the Wikipedia article is a good first exposure with usable references, and a look at the comments to the blog entry Neuroeconomics explained reveals the perils of defining a new discipline. Neuroethicists be warned.
Very interesting – one wonders about the relationship between punishment and pain. “Pain” centers have been shown to be activated by purchasing, particularly if the price is perceived to be high or unfair. Thanks for the link!
-Roger