Too Cool: A Washington Post Article

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around advancements in brain-computer interfaces, particularly the ability for individuals to control mechanical devices using their thoughts. Participants explore various examples and implications of this technology, including its accuracy, potential applications, and the evolution of human cognition in response to such innovations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that while the Washington Post article is interesting, it is not entirely accurate regarding the history of brain-controlled devices.
  • One participant recalls seeing a demonstration where a person controlled an airplane simulator using electrodes, suggesting earlier instances of thought-controlled technology.
  • Another participant mentions a fictional book that explores the concept of two-way communication between a pilot and an aircraft, raising questions about the implications of such technology.
  • Concerns are expressed about the psychological impact of advanced brain interfaces, referencing a case where an arm transplant recipient regretted the procedure.
  • Participants discuss the potential for brain evolution and the emergence of new cognitive abilities as a result of mind control technologies, speculating on social implications and the development of a privileged class based on these abilities.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the accuracy and implications of brain-computer interface technology, with no consensus reached on the historical claims or future outcomes discussed.

Contextual Notes

Some claims rely on personal experiences and anecdotal evidence, which may not be universally applicable. The discussion includes speculative elements about the future of human cognition and societal structures influenced by technology.

RageSk8
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A17434-2003Oct12.html
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Biology news on Phys.org
Although nice, not completely accurate:

Scientists in North Carolina have built a brain implant that let's monkeys control a robotic arm with their thoughts, marking the first time that mental intentions have been harnessed to move a mechanical object.
About three years ago I saw someone fly an airplane (in a simulator) with electrodes attached to her head, this was a lay-person hosting a scientific technology television program.
 
That happened a few months back, actually.
 
There is an intriguing fiction book about it called "Day of the Cheetah" where a guy interfaces in a literal sense with his airplane - two way communication, not just one-way control.
 
The dude with the first arm transplant complained afterward that he wished he never had the procedure.
 
Originally posted by Monique
Although nice, not completely accurate:

Well, technically this was the first mechanism controlled.

About three years ago I saw someone fly an airplane (in a simulator) with electrodes attached to her head, this was a lay-person hosting a scientific technology television program.

I saw something like this many years ago where a military pilot was training on a mind controlled computer game. He had to change from Alpha to Beta [or Theta] wave dominance to steer right or left.
 
Originally posted by Ivan Seeking
Well, technically this was the first mechanism controlled.



I saw something like this many years ago where a military pilot was training on a mind controlled computer game. He had to change from Alpha to Beta [or Theta] wave dominance to steer right or left.

I've also seen a slalom skiing videogame in which the player makes the skier turn by switching from right brain two left brain neural activity.
 
Yes, in the documentary they were saying that this could lead to a new definition of multi-tasking.. flying the airplane with your hands, controlling the machine gun with the mind.. ultrafast response.. we need a lot of adapting to do in order to do such a thing.. or might it be childsplay when introduced at a young age? I guess so... gives new meaning to playing mindgames...
 
Originally posted by Monique
...gives new meaning to playing mindgames...

That's good.
 
  • #10
How will the brain evolve, and what primitive areas of it will we utilize with the advent of mind control? Shall some people become more adept and form a privilaged caste (shades of original Star Trek?) in their new talent, and will deep regions of the brain come to conscious action?

Monique-Lisa, completing the square!
 

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