Neurotechnology is emerging as a ray of hope for addressing neurological
ailments and understanding the intricate structure of the human brain. With rapid
advancements in neurotechnology and its capability to monitor neural activity,
researchers are now better equipped to gain insight into the mysteries of the
human brain. By using this technology, many neurological problems may be
treated and therapies can be developed in a novel way. It will also offer new
opportunities to individuals with extreme disabilities enabling them to regain
their liberty and reconnect with their surroundings through direct brain control.
The development of Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) is one of the most
revolutionary developments in neurotechnology. BCIs transmit a direct
communication link between the human brain and an external device, eliminating
typical communication methods such as use of body parts, muscles or nerves.
BCIs enable users to manipulate external devices which includes prosthetic limbs
or computer interfaces, through interpreting electrical impulses emitted by the
human brain.
BCI and Neurotechnology can be traced back to ancient times when electric fish
were used for types of neurological treatment. In the 18th and 19th centuries,
researchers gained key findings regarding the electrical nature of muscle and
nerve activity, building the foundation for current BCI and Neurotechnology. The
first idea of modern brain-computer interface (BCI) was proposed by J. J. Vidal
in 1973. He used electroencephalography (EEG) to capture and analyse neural
activity in real time. Since then, signal processing, feature extraction,
categorization, and evaluation were all completely transformed with
developments in neurotechnology. These technological developments have
increased the probable applications of neurotechnology to include speech
synthesisers, augmented and virtual reality, prosthetic limbs, and gaming. During
the mid-twentieth century, researchers examined the interaction between the
human brain and external technologies which led to the creation of both invasive
brain implants and non-invasive implant techniques like electroencephalography
(EEG). With the developments in computer power and signal processing
capabilities, brain signal interpretation also became progressively accurate. This
advancement led to the creation of hybrid BCIs, which can incorporate different
types of processes.
Neurotechnology is a rapidly evolving science with the potential to greatly
enhance the lives of people, who are suffering from neurological illnesses and
impairments, especially through the development of brain-computer interfaces.
The diagnosis and monitoring of neurological conditions is one of the most
significant uses of BCI and neurotechnology. These technologies, measure neural
activity through techniques such as EEG, MEG, or fMRI, and can give crucial
insights about the location, seriousness, and course of illnesses such as epilepsy,
Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, strokes, and brain tumours. BCI and
neurotechnology hold the potential to assist individuals with motor impairments
to recover and regain mobility. These technologies can improve neuroplasticity
and improve motor learning by providing feedback tailored to the patient’s
movements, thoughts or actions. Individuals who have suffered spinal cord
injuries, stroke survivors, or amputations can benefit greatly from this, as this
technology allows them to regain independence and control body on in their daily
lives. Furthermore, BCI and neurotechnology can enhance human skills by
improving thinking, memory, retention, focus, sentiment, and communication.
Techniques such as TMS, tDCS, and DBS can stimulate or alter brain activity,
affecting neural activity and behavior. It provides new abilities to improve
memory, solve cognitive problems and improve communication in people with
speech and mobility impairments.
Brain-computer interfaces (BCI) and neurotechnology possess the power to
transform many aspects of everyday life, such as communication, well-being,
entertainment, and education. However, with any new
technological innovation, some ethical and legal concerns arises that need to be
addressed. Since BCI involves the gathering and examination of extremely
sensitive brain information, privacy becomes a significant issue. In order to
address these privacy concerns, an effective legislative framework must be
established to ensure the protection of individuals' privacy rights. Another key
concern is informed consent, which guarantees that individuals are completely
aware for the potential implications and hazards of using BCI. Furthermore,
exploitative intentions like psychological coercion or invasive surveillance could
be conducted with the use of BCI. In order to avoid these kinds of violations and
safeguard individuals from possible harm, ethical rules and regulations must
be implemented. Besides this, concerns about access and equity and questions
like "Will these technologies be available to everyone, or will the gap between
people who can afford them and those who cannot will expand?" could also arise.
It becomes essential to ensure equal access to neurotechnology and BCIs. By
ensuring that these innovations are available to a wide range of people, regardless
of socio-economic status, authorities can contribute to progress towards an
equitable and inclusive society not just for the privileged the advantages of
emerging technologies.
