Can we rewire the brain to become more compassionate? That's one of the questions central to the work of James Doty, director of Stanford's Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education. Doty's new book, "Into the Magic Shop", chronicles his journey from a chaotic childhood in Southern California to a scientist at the cutting edge of the heart-brain connection. Host: Michael Krasny.

James Doty decided on his career path in fourth grade when a doctor came to visit his class and modeled for him the type of person he wanted to be.  It was not the work of medicine that made the strongest impression on Doty, but the man’s kindness.

James Doty emerged from a disadvantaged background in the United States to become a neurosurgeon, an entrepreneur and a philanthropist—only to let his fortune go and dedicate his professional life to the scientific study of compassion and altruism.

Dr Doty is a neuro-scientist and shares science that relates to compassion. He explains how we are genetically designed for bonding, nurturing and being in a caring community. The health results of compassionate behavior are happiness and longevity. He discusses many experiments and uses visual aids not available here.

James Doty, M.D. is a neurosurgeon and founder of Project Compassion at the Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education at Stanford University.