Does electrical stimulation to the brain hold the key to better treatment for depression, stroke, and other neurological problems? This salon took an in-depth look at the use of TMS (magnetic) and tDCS (electrical) devices. Attendees heard from a psychiatrist and a depression patient he has treated with electric stimulation, as well as from neuroscientists who demonstrated these devices and discussed what their research is telling them about the potential for treatment.

The World Science Festival’s annual salon series offers in-depth conversations with leading scientists, extending the discussion of the Festival’s premier public programs to graduate students, postdocs, faculty, and well-informed members of the general public.

This program is part of the Big Ideas Series, made possible with support from the John Templeton Foundation.

Photograph: Jon Smith