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Reading the human brain: the future is here

The development of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) is accelerating at an incredible pace. Assistive technologies have been developed for the disabled and include speech restoration, the control of movement in robotic devices by thought alone; and the restoration of sensation, vision and hearing. BCI applications for the treatment of mental illness and addiction are also being investigated. Mind reading, brain enhancement, the ‘super-soldier’, lie detection, in vitro brain organoid-electronic interfaces are more controversial applications. All these advances generate major ethical and legal issues which include informed consent, privacy of thought, ownership of brain data, criminal responsibility, industry responsibility and equitable access. The ethical and legal issues should be explored alongside the medical and scientific advances.