As we gaze into the future of computers, and the Internet, we see that new problems and new assets will arise. We are quickly approaching a time when the human brain and the computer become one in a harmonious union of technology and humanity. This advancement will lead to many great abilities such as being able to instantly communicate with any individual wirelessly. While these advancements may be great there are some who believe that any combination of our species with the technology we create is ethically and morally wrong. While there may be several issues that are possible with this possible merger there are not any that cannot be overcome. By integrating computers into the brain we could seamlessly share our emotions with others over the Internet, creating a form of communication unlike any other.
Dr. Roy Bakay, a neuroprosthetics researcher at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia is quoted as saying, “If you can run a computer, you can talk to the world”. This idea becomes even more relevant when we take into account the possibilities presented by social neuroprosthetics. A pseudo-telepathy can be created out of the symbiosis between humans and computers that shows amazing potential. Because, while speech is a remarkable tool it also lacks in several abilities, for instance, being able to express abstract ideas like emotion in an efficient manner. By enabling the exchange of an entire perceptual experience to another person we could finally cross the boundary that language has surrounded us in for centuries.
Although there are a great many benefits to such a technology some still perceive problems with it. One of these foreseeable issues with a brain computer interface is a computers’ innate ability to be altered against the users will. By hacking or phreaking a computer linked to an individuals’ brain, negative emotions could be expressed or damage could even be done. Also, since our perceptions could be directly shared this could also mean that one could force false perceptions on another individual altering their experience entirely. Many who feel that humans should remain separate entities from the technology we create see this as a perfect example as to why computers and the brain should not be integrated. However, this concept merely means that only those with a high level of skill in computer systems should receive such implants, otherwise hacking could occur. Another possible solution is to develop software to prevent such malicious attacks. In an article on computer security by Spencer Kelly at the BBC he states, “All of it could have been prevented with anti-virus software and a firewall”.
One complaint against the use of the Internet in its current form is the ability for users to easily forget information since there is no urgency to recall it when it is so easily accessible. Although some individuals neglect to retain information when it can be found with little effort online this would no longer be a problem if neuroprosthetics were introduced. This is true since storage could be mediated by a computer system, thus all information on the Internet could be instantly remembered allowing for great leaps in knowledge. Another benefit is that information learned the old fashioned way, through paper based medium, could be easily absorbed and organized. Although some humanists will still feel that it is opposing to their morals to remember information in an unnatural way.
One key medical issue is found when realizing any foreign object found inside the body creates a possibility of rejection. While it can be overcome, such an obstacle must be taken seriously in order to prevent any complications. Many people would also be opposed to such a development feeling that combining humans and computers is taking technology beyond an already fuzzy moral boundary. While I respect the opinions of those who are against it I believe that as long as this technology is never forced upon an individual it should be allowed to be pursued.
Again, even with advancements in technology we see that any form of technology can be used incorrectly thus creating problems. However, when used responsibly the power of technology prevails over any negative consequences of its use. The Internet is one of the most influential tools that humans have at our disposal. While there may be a long path to follow before we can incorporate something as powerful as the Internet into our own brains we can see that its potential is immense. As long as we keep a suitable balance between our use of technology and humanity there is no reason we shouldn’t allow advancements as crucial as the Internet and social neuroprosthetics to flourish.
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2 comments:
When the concept of melding mind and internet was brought up in class, I was immediately skeptical. most people in the class seemed instantly sold on its science fiction suggestion (im pretty sure I heard the word 'droids' being thrown around), but for me the word 'implants' sent all of my conspiracy flags in the air. Immediately I could see big brother over my shoulder, opening the floodgates of mass mind control. However alarmist, this is the worst-case consequence of most literally letting someone else in your brain.
That said, I think this technology could be tremendously useful, not to mention awesome. And to seek to ban the development of something based on moral objections would make most of my social views extremely hypocritical. And I cant pretend that I have any more than an inkling of what this technology is, or what it can do, but I do suggest we keep a weather eye on the socio-political impact of it use. Even if it is never (god forbid) forced onto anyone, imagine its widespread use if/when it becomes commercialized. Join the club or be that one lone voice in the crowd. Few would choose that route, so there is the potential of social pressure enforcing it. And I know this sounds like pressuring someone to get a Facebook, but you never know where these things will lead us. Noting just the effects of the internet in the present day, the effects wrought on society and social relationship should the internet be incorporated into our brains would be absolutely astounding. For better or for worse, who could possibly say? Just all things to consider since we are responsible for whatever unfolds.
I understand that a great many people do still view such concepts as mere science fiction, but they laughed at Jules Verne. I have repeatedly noticed that the people in this world that cause great change are the ones who look just a little farther into the future than anyone else. There are many technologies that must be perfected before social neuroprosthetics can become a possibility, however, it is a goal to work towards. All of the discoveries along the way are worth it, not to mention the distinct possibility of reaching the end goal.
In the wrong hands any and all technological breakthroughs are potentially dangerous. We can only hope that humanity has matured to the point where they will not attempt to debauch what could be an amazingly helpful technology. It would also be necessary, of course, to implement any possible safeguards against such misuse. As far as social pressures go its an unavoidable element of any controversial topic introduced to a society. You raise good points that definitely need to be thought about before bringing such an idea to fruition.
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