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Controlling Computers With the Brain

Posted by kdawson on from the telepathic-smileys dept.

Killam0n takes note of a story in CNN Money on progress in controlling computers via brainwaves. From an aspirin-sized implant a quadriplegic is now using to play computer games, the article extrapolates out to a near future in which we will all be wearing headband computers and IM'ing one another as if telepathically. "Two years ago, a quadriplegic man started playing video games using his brain as a controller. That may just sound like fun and games for the unfortunate, but really, it spells the beginning of a radical change in how we interact with computers — and business will never be the same. Someday, keyboards and computer mice will be remembered only as medieval-style torture devices for the wrists. All work — emails, spreadsheets, and Google searches — will be performed by mind control."

4 of 253 comments (clear)

  1. What a terrible path by steveo777 · · Score: 3, Insightful
    This is where we get into big trouble. At one point or another, everyone wants a phone that can listen in to the other line a few seconds after the call is ended. Just to hear what the jack ass on the other line really thinks. With thoughts 'controlling' your keyboards these kinds of things will happen. With this kind of stuff around, we'll be accidentally IMing the wrong thought at the wrong time to the wrong person.

    The next step will be mind-controlled Gundam-style robots for everyone. What's this world coming to?!

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    This sig isn't original enough, it's time to come up with something witty...
  2. That's all fine and dandy by chatgris · · Score: 5, Insightful

    Until we find out what kind of torture this imparts on the BRAIN.

    Personally, I'd take the risks from straining my wrists due to mechanical motion over implanting a chip (along with unknown stressors) in my brain any day. If I'm going to potentionally cause harm to one part of my body, it'll be my wrists over my brain.

    I'm not a luddite, really! But my brain is just too vital to me to start tossing implants into it.

    --
    Open Your Mind. Open Your Source.
  3. Re:Mind-controlled computers will last until... by Metasquares · · Score: 3, Insightful

    If we can determine what people are thinking, we can certainly determine whether they're in a fully conscious state while they're doing it. With proper precautions, I don't think that's an issue.

  4. All work *already* performed by mind control by zooblethorpe · · Score: 4, Insightful

    "All work -- emails, spreadsheets, and Google searches -- will be performed by mind control."

    Hell, it already is -- somehow my boss's very whims turn into tasks for me to perform. No real difference here... :-P

    --
    "What in the name of Fats Waller is that?"
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