Abstract
Transformations of humans through advances in bioelectronics, nanotechnologies, and computer science are leading to hybrids of humans and machines. Future brain-machine interfaces will enable humans not only to be constantly linked to the Internet, and to cyber think, but will also enable technology to take information directly from the brain. Brain-computer interfaces, where a chip is implanted in the brain, will facilitate a tremendous augmentation of human capacities, including the radical enhancement of the human ability to remember and to reason, and to achieve immortality through cloning and brain downloading, or existence in virtual reality. The ethical and legal issues raised by these possibilities represent global challenges. The most pressing concerns are those raised by privacy and autonomy. The potential exists for control of persons, through global tracking, by actually “seeing” and “hearing” what the individual is experiencing, and by controlling and directing an individual’s thoughts, emotions, moods, and motivations. Public dialogue must be initiated. New principles, agencies, and regulations need to be formulated and scientific organizations, states, countries, and the United Nations must all be involved.
TopBrain Computer Interfaces
Two kinds of interfaces can be identified – those that input to the neural base and those that output or record electrical brain signals. Interfaces that input to the neural base include clinical devices that aim to restore function to body systems.
This type of interface is comprised of three varieties that are presently undergoing research: non-invasive, partially invasive and invasive. Non-invasive neural interfaces record brain activity from an external device mounted on the scalp. Recording of electrocorticographic activity from the cortical surface has been used to create games that read alpha and beta waves, and to allow patients, after extensive training, to detect, modify and use a computer to direct a cursor on a screen or to control lights, TV and stereo sound (Donoghue, 2006). EEG recording is the most widely studied non-invasive Brain Computer Interface; in addition, magnetoencephalography and functional magnetic resonance imaging are employed. These non-invasive methods suffer from poor signaling resolution due to interference from the skull, and the intensive and demanding training needed to operate the technology. Nevertheless, several commercial models are available to control gaming systems, educational applications and investigative medical applications (www.neurosky.com). The company InteraXon has created a suite of brain training games, and has introduced a device called MUSE which measures brainwaves, and “allows you to control games, reduce stress, improve memory and concentration, and eventually to control devices directly with your mind.” (Interexon) The first commercial effort of a computer interface designed for patients with locked-in syndrome, the Intendix lets users input text using only their brains; another application lets users create paintings. (Intendix)