Neuralink, a startup created by Elon Musk, is one step away from starting clinical trials to implant chips in the human brain. But this plan received a lot of criticism and anxiety from scientists.
So far, Neuralink has only demonstrated its implantable chips in pigs and monkeys. If it has been implanted in the human brain, Musk said this chip could help paralyzed people control their phones using their minds, and even walk again.
While this project could drive rapid technological advances, many researchers and scientists are concerned about Musk's dream of connecting the human brain with computers. Their biggest concern is the human brain and mind being infiltrated by Big Tech.
"I don't think there's enough public discourse about the big picture implications of this kind of technology that's available," said University of Wisconsin assistant professor of health history and bioethics. Karola Kreitmair, as quoted from Futurism, Thursday (27/1/2022).
Ethics related to technology such as Neuralink is still a question mark. Because of that, many are worried that this technology can be exploited for the benefit of certain companies, even though it can basically help people with disabilities.
"If the end goal is to use the acquired brain data for other devices, or use these devices for other things -- for example driving a car, driving a Tesla -- then there's going to be a much bigger market," said the professor at SUNY Upstate Medical University. Dr. L.Syd Johnson.
"But then, all the humans who are the subject of research -- people who really need it -- get exploited and exploited in risky research for other people's commercial gain."
Kreitmar also agreed with Johnson's comments. He believes this technology can change the lives of paralyzed people, but its commercialization potential raises many questions.
Some experts are also worried that Musk is just gibberish even though there is no real evidence and progress. The SpaceX and Tesla boss has made sweet promises several times about his ambitious projects, such as the Cybertruck and Hyperloop, but in fact his company couldn't launch them on time.
"These companies and the owners of these companies, they're like showmen. They're going to make these hyperbolic claims, and I think that's dangerous, because I think people sometimes believe them blindly," said Dr. Penn State neuroethics researcher. Laura Cabrera.
"I'm always careful what Elon Musk says," he continued.