Inside the Mind: Brain-Reading Devices and Their Ethical Frontiers

Brain-reading devices, also called brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) or neurotechnologies, are systems that detect, interpret, and sometimes influence brain activity.

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They connect the brain to external devices (like computers or prosthetics) and translate neural signals into commands or data.

Types of Brain-Reading Devices

1. Invasive BCIs

o Implanted directly into the brain (e.g., via surgery).

o High precision in signal capture.

o Used in clinical applications like:

§ Restoring movement in paralyzed patients.

§ Treating neurological disorders (e.g., Parkinson's via deep brain stimulation).

o Example: Neuralink (Elon Musk's company).

2. Non-invasive BCIs

o Use external devices like electrodes or sensors on the scalp.

o No surgery needed.

o Less accurate but safer and more accessible.

o Techniques include:

§ EEG (Electroencephalography): Measures electrical activity.

§ fNIRS (Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy): Monitors blood flow.

§ fMRI: Tracks brain activity via changes in blood oxygen.