Center for Sensorimotor Neural Engineering (CSNE) research leader, Eberhard Fetz, has co-authored a report published today in the journal Science, which takes a close look at the ethical concerns and implications surrounding devices controlled via brain-machine interfaces (BMIs). The report describes several likely scenarios resulting from the use of these devices and suggests some possible ways to address the issues, including designing a form of “veto” control for the BMI user, engineering greater neurosecurity into BMIs, and improving health and neuro-literacy in the public sphere.

The publication has also gained notice in media outlets such as GeekWire and MedicalXPress.

Similar discussions, investigations and research into the ethical impacts and implications of brain-computer interfaces is conducted on an ongoing basis by the CSNE’s Neuroethics research thrust, which studies ethical issues arising from emerging neural engineering technologies. Issues include questions of privacy, security, moral and legal responsibility, changes in our understanding of individual agency, shifts in personal identity and social justice.