Brain-computer Interfaces
The ability to
control a computer using only the power of the mind is closer than one might
think. Brain-computer interfaces, where computers can read and interpret
signals directly from the brain, have already achieved clinical success in
allowing quadriplegics, those suffering “locked-in syndrome” or people who have
had a stroke to move their own wheelchairs or even drink coffee from a cup by
controlling the action of a robotic arm with their brain waves. In addition,
direct brain implants have helped restore partial vision to people who have
lost their sight.
Some strengths
of this device are for people who are disabled, and may have trouble and
struggle with using computers manually with their hands. With this device,
people who are disabled can put the device on their head and the computer can
interpret their brain and do tasks on the computer for them. A weakness is the
price for these devices being very expensive, some families may not be able to
afford this device for the person who needs this or if they are single and on
their own, maybe they can’t afford it with their budget. Also, something could
go wrong with it and not work anymore, and you can’t get your full return
and/or money back.
Opportunities
for this device could be focused on people with disabilities, and using your
computer hands-free. It could be a huge opportunity for persons with robot arms
or prosthetic arms and for people who are mentally disabled, this device helps
them so much with things they have to get done online or on the computer. Threats
for this device are mainly related to safety issues. If any mechanical problem
comes up, it could affect the person using the device. Research projects from
scientists have worked on manipulating or directly implanting memories from a
computer into the brain. In
humans, the ability to directly manipulate memories might have an application
in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder, while in the longer term;
information may be uploaded into human brains in the manner of a computer file.
While this could be an opportunity or strength to society, it also could create
numerous possible ethical issues.
