Daphne Baker

Daphne Baker, Ph.D., explores questions at the crossroads of cognitive science and ethics, delving into topics like how we form our moral judgments, why individuals prepare for retirement, and the root causes behind societal value conflicts. Working out of her state-of-the-art laboratory in Sydney, Australia, Daphne employs a mix of cutting-edge techniques—from real-time brain scanning to advanced algorithmic simulations. Her work has significantly advanced the field of neuroethics, revealing insights into how the brain processes risk and reward, the neural underpinnings of empathy and collaboration, the mechanisms through which investors adapt to market volatility, and the brain's perception of justice.

In the spring of 2024, Daphne led an innovative study that explored the effects of virtual reality on decision-making processes. The experiment was conducted in a high-tech facility in downtown Sydney, where participants were immersed in realistic scenarios designed to challenge their ethical reasoning. This research not only contributed to our understanding of human behavior but also sparked discussions on the implications of VR technology for future educational and therapeutic practices. Daphne is keenly aware of the potential for neuroscience to shape public policy and is dedicated to fostering a dialogue between scientists and policymakers to ensure responsible application of these findings.