Neurotechnology
Analysis of brain-computer interfaces, neural data governance, and cognitive liberty frameworks to ensure ethical development and deployment of technologies that interact with the human brain.
Research Overview
The Neurotechnology research area examines the ethical, legal, and social implications of technologies that interface with the human brain and nervous system. As brain-computer interfaces, neural implants, and other neurotechnologies advance, understanding their potential impacts on human autonomy, privacy, and identity becomes essential for ensuring responsible development and deployment.
Our research in this area spans technical analysis, ethical frameworks, and policy development, with a particular focus on:
- Neural Data Governance: Developing frameworks for the ethical collection, storage, and use of neural data, with strong privacy and security protections.
- Cognitive Liberty: Examining the implications of neurotechnology for mental privacy, freedom of thought, and cognitive autonomy, and developing frameworks to protect these fundamental rights.
- Brain-Computer Interfaces: Analyzing the technical, ethical, and social dimensions of direct interfaces between technology and the human brain, including both invasive and non-invasive approaches.
- Neuroethics: Exploring the broader ethical questions raised by neurotechnology, including issues of identity, agency, and the boundaries between human and machine.
Current Projects
Neural Data Governance Framework
Development of comprehensive guidelines for the ethical collection, storage, and use of neural data, with a focus on privacy, security, and user control.
Cognitive Liberty Initiative
A research project examining the legal and ethical dimensions of cognitive liberty, and developing frameworks to protect mental privacy and freedom of thought in the age of neurotechnology.
BCI Standards Development
Collaborative work to develop technical and ethical standards for brain-computer interfaces, ensuring safety, efficacy, and respect for user autonomy.
Neurorights Policy Framework
Research examining how existing legal frameworks can be adapted or expanded to protect neurorights, and developing policy recommendations for different jurisdictions.
Research Methodology
Our research in this area employs a multidisciplinary approach, combining:
- Technical Analysis: Examination of neurotechnology systems, including brain-computer interfaces, neural implants, and neuroimaging technologies, to understand their capabilities and limitations.
- Ethical Inquiry: Philosophical investigation of the ethical implications of neurotechnology, drawing on traditions in bioethics, philosophy of mind, and technology ethics.
- Legal Analysis: Examination of existing legal frameworks and their applicability to neurotechnology, and development of new legal approaches where needed.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborative work with diverse stakeholders including researchers, industry leaders, policymakers, and potential users of neurotechnology to develop inclusive governance approaches.
Featured Publication
Neural Data Governance: Privacy and Security Frameworks
This comprehensive report provides a structured approach to neural data governance, addressing privacy, security, and user control in the collection and use of data from brain-computer interfaces and other neurotechnologies.
Read the report