BCI and Artificial Intelligence

Computers becoming aware of their own existence while exhibiting superhuman intelligence is what futurist Ray Kurzweil refers to as the Technological Singularity. This is defined as the moment in time when technological progress becomes so rapid that we can only speculate about the future interaction of humans and machines.

Three dimensional layered computer chips, modeled, in part, after the human brain are already being developed by computer manufacturer Intel. Within the next fifty years, a computer may evolve that actually possesses the processing power and flexibility of the human brain. In time, the field of brain surgery may require the combined talents of a skilled neurosurgeon and computer geek all rolled into one.

As BCI technology further advances, brain tissue may one day give way to implanted silicon chips thereby creating a completely computerized simulation of the human brain that can be augmented at will. Futurists like Kurzweil predict that from there, superhuman artificial intelligence won't be far behind.

Mind Control Device Demonstration - Tan Le

Ethical and Moral Implications of BCI

As BCI technology goes mainstream, certain moral and ethical implications are sure to arise. Who will have access to this potentially society disrupting technology? Clearly, individuals equipped with BCI technology will be better positioned to excel in the world, and because artificial brain augmentation will involve great expense, this technology will likely be accessible to only those with great wealth.

Lawmakers and scientists must tread lightly where the potential for artificial augmentation of human intelligence exists. In addition, assuming Kurzweil's predictions are accurate and superhuman AIs are produced within the next fifty to one hundred years, how will "organic" humans of average intelligence relate to both transhuman and posthuman intelligence? Questions like this must be asked sooner than later - because later may be too late.