Cognitive Connections, Ethical Reflections: Investigating the Ethical
Implications of Brain-Brain Interfaces
Abstract
In the era of advancing neurotechnology, the emergence of brain-brain
interfaces (BBIs) has opened up new frontiers in human communication and
connectivity. BBIs are direct communication pathways between the brain
of one subject and the brain of another subject that allow the users to
extract and exchange information. Compared to traditional biomedical
devices, brain-brain interfaces were originally more invasive between
only two people; however, emerging research paves the way for new
non-invasive interfaces between two or more brains. As this technology
continues to grow with no current regulatory framework and cognitive
connections between individuals become a tangible reality, a crucial
question arises: What are the ethical implications of this remarkable
technology? In this paper, we embark on a journey of ethical
reflections, delving into the intricate considerations and moral
dilemmas surrounding BBIs. We examine the fundamental values at stake,
such as autonomy, privacy, and the potential for misuse, while drawing
insights from established ethical frameworks. Analyzing the risks of
this technology presents similar results, where we observe risks of
safety from invasive neurosurgery, in addition to privacy-related risks
upon the misuse of such an information network. Through a comprehensive
analysis, we seek to shed light on the complex interplay between
cognitive connections and ethical responsibilities, paving the way for
informed decision-making and responsible development of this
groundbreaking field. Since the maliciousness of this interface highly
depends on its uses, we conclude that its uses should be currently
restricted to the medical field, where it is needed the most. We also
provide additional recommendations and future work aiming to pave the
way to referenceable standards and frameworks that prevent the
exploitation of BBI users and protect their privacy.