Brain Recording, Mind-Reading, and Neurotechnology: Ethical Issues from Consumer Devices

Brain-reading technologies are advancing rapidly, capable of recording, processing, and decoding neural signals.

Overview

Authors: Stephen Rainey, Stéphanie Martin, Andy Christen, Pierre Mégevand, Eric Fourneret

Publication Date: 30 April 2020

Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11948-020-00218-0

Keywords: mind-reading, cognitive liberty, privacy, neural signals, ethical concerns, surveillance, thought decoding, autonomy, neuroscience, human rights

Type: Peer-Reviewed Journals/White Papers

Summary

Brain-reading technologies are advancing rapidly, capable of recording, processing, and decoding neural signals. Often described as "mind-reading technology" in popular media, these tools raise significant ethical concerns. Can they truly read minds? If so, they may threaten privacy, cognitive liberty, and the freedom for private deliberation and self-conception. If these technologies genuinely enable mind-reading, robust ethical frameworks must be established to address these risks. If not, researchers and developers must accurately describe their capabilities to dispel unwarranted fears while addressing legitimate concerns. This article explores these issues, emphasizing the need for clarity and ethical safeguards.