LIE DETECTOR
A new form of lie detector that works by voice analysis and which can be used without a subject's knowledge has been introduced in Britain. Dektor claims that the muscle tightening occurs very quickly, and can change from one word to the next, so that it is possible to pick out a word or phrase that caused stress. Three steps are suggested to overcome this difficulty. First, the subject is supposed to see a full list of the question in advance. Second, there are 'neutral' questions and one to which the subject is specifically asked to lie. Third, if an individual shows stress on a vital question, then additional question must be asked to ensure that this does not reflect n earlier theft or the subject's knowledge of someone else responsibe. In the US, the device is used for pre-employment interviews. The potential application of the PSE in Britain is extremely disquieting, especially as there seems no law to prevent its use. The mostserious problem is that its primary application will be in situation where people may not object- such as pre-employment interviews. But, it can also be used to probe a whole range of personal issues totally unrelated job- union and political affiliations, for example. Finally, the device is not foolproof but depends on the skill of the investigator, who receives only a one week course from Dektor.
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