Mind over Machine: Ethical Dilemmas in Brain–computer Interface Technology

Since the beginning of human history, there have been efforts and means to influence humans. Advances in technology continue to blur the border between humans and machines as the fiction of “mind control” gradually comes closer to reality. In this effort, electronic devices have been developed that can be placed outside or inside the brain or other parts of the nervous system and interact with a person’s nervous system. Apparently, our thoughts, decisions, emotions, and many other complex networks of neural circuits could potentially be overtaken by brain–computer interfaces (BCIs), making autonomous decisions and thus influencing mental privacy and personal identity. BCIs continuously provide the scope for extensive and widespread human change and hence require simultaneous efforts to develop safe and effective methods of regulation to govern the nature, scope, and use of all these devices. It is beyond doubt that BCI technology has a promising future and can help a selected group of patients. However, it cannot be underestimated that these advancements shall come with great responsibility, where we need to ensure the integrity of the human mind, address legal and ethical issues, prevent hacking, and ensure data safety protocols.