Brain-Computer Interfaces: Should They See the Light of Day?
Technology advancements continue to enthral the human race—wearable computing, augmented reality, ongoing advancements in social networking, and new sophisticated devices entering the market are all things we may not have imagined to be in mainstream use just a few years ago.
As new and revolutionary changes enter the market, it is not unusual to see them subjected to debate—typically about the product’s relevance, price, or any potential compromises on user privacy. When Google Glass entered the market, the devices were banned in several public places for security reasons, and issues remain even today. Even though debates may continue, the market continues to embrace new ideas. The latest in revolutionary technology is research to understand a person’s mind.
A brain-computer interface (BCI) aids in gathering data based on neuro-signals from the brain, which could include brief but important pieces of information such as a person’s reaction to specific events. BCIs are actively being researched at the University of Washington. One potential use of this program is to better understand user preferences and give them input accordingly.
This may be a tangible benefit, but legal resistance and reduced market acceptance are likely unless this idea is thoroughly researched and the team behind it is open to potential controversies. They are trying to understand the possible negative implications from a user security standpoint and how to mitigate them—including sanitizing the data coming out of a human brain—which is no easy feat.
It is exciting to see such revolutionary ideas enter the market, but BCIs may intrude into a person’s individuality. And this brings us to the question: Should BCIs ever see the light of day?
We are familiar with lie detectors and some of their practical uses, but their results continue to be controversial, especially in police investigations. In a similar vein, brain readers could be put to use in criminal interrogations, investigations, and nabbings. BCIs could also be used in the medical field. BCIs could be put to effective use in these two areas in lieu of their entry into the mainstream market.
Mass entry would only flood the market with more data—which becomes unmanageable, unnecessary (to some extent), and more importantly unsecured and unauthorized for regular use. If a diligent division is made in usage, this new brain computer interfaces project will be a significant feather in the cap of technology revolutions.
