The NeuroRights Initiative
Over the last decade, neuroengineering has been developing rapidly. Neuroengineering is the convergence of neuroscience, device development, computation and mathematics. This weekend Elon Musk posted a video of a monkey with a neural implant of Neurlink that played ping-pong using his mind. The neural implant of Neurolink makes it possible to control a computer or mobile device with your mind.
Neurotechnology, especially when combined with artificial intelligence, has the potential to change society and challenge the idea of what it means to be human. In the future, it might be possible to decode thoughts from human neural activity or provide brain enhancement by directly linking the brain to digital networks.
Initiated by Rafael Yuste, The Columbia University's Neurotechnology Centre launched The NeuroRights Initiative. The initiative must protect our free will, our thoughts and autonomy, now that all kinds of technology are on the way that is in contact with our brain. The NeuroRights Initiative distinguishes five basic rights; the right to personal identity, free will, mental privacy, equal access to mental improvement, and the right to protection against algorithm bias.
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Why this matters
Neurotechnology and Artificial Intelligence are in contact with the human brain. Developments are interesting but ethical questions surrounding these technologies should be considered. Ethical guidelines can aid in the responsible development of neurotechnologies and human rights protection.