As humanity continues to advance, technology soon follows suit. This is because technology is used for pressing issues. One person who shares the idea of technology is Elon Musk. Elon Musk is a multi-billionaire, who is the founder of SpaceX, which designs, manufactures, and launches spacecraft. Musk also is the founder of Tesla, which is an electric motor company focused on using renewable energy instead of fossil fuels. In addition to these powerhouse companies, Elon Musk also founded Neuralink, which designs and manufactures computer-interfaces in hopes to implant them into brains, which will help people control computers and other technology with their minds, to allow people with paraplegia to regain movement, and those born blind to regain sight. But as of recently, Neuralink has become a cause for concern regarding its first human trial.
What is Neuralink?
Neuralink is a Brain Computer Interface(BCI), about the size of a coin, which is implanted into the brain. After implantation, the BCI is accessed through Bluetooth, transferring commands from the brain to a device, such as a smartphone or computer. This is also known as “Telepathy,” according to Elon Musk. Neuralink claims that if connected to the part of the brain with motor functions, it would allow the person to overcome neurological dysfunction. This application of the Neuralink would help a great amount of people. Musk says “Imagine if Stephen Hawking could communicate faster than a speed typist or auctioneer. That is the goal.”
Trial of Neuralink
Starting in 2017 to 2020, Neuralink began its first trial, in which it was tested on monkeys. At first, these tests were shrouded in mystery, but Elon Musk claimed that the monkeys were already terminally ill or were close to death so casualties were somewhat expected, but were not connected to Neuralink. As news of the demise of the monkeys was slowly reported to the public, many were quick to criticize the lack of information given by Neuralink and Elon Musk. The public was right to criticize Neuralink; as revealed by Wired in 2023, the vast majority of the monkeys died due to neurological problems from the Neuralink. In spite of concerns for safety and the existence of Neuralink, Neuralink began its first human trial, implanting it into their first patient on January 28, 2024 as stated by Elon Musk on the platform X.
Cause for Concern
As Neuralink continues with their first human trials, many are still criticizing Neuralink. With the goal to allow people with disabilities to perform actions they were not able to previously, subsequently it also brings along unwarranted repercussions. Some of these repercussions include identity theft, blackmail, and invasion of privacy from third parties due to the fact that it is able to read the user’s thoughts. Another concern that scientists share is that if the device is completely implanted into a person, parts of the device will be very difficult to replace if a malfunction occurs or if the device is damaged. Although Neuralink is still veiled with mystery, it may become a widespread remedy if its first human trial has successful results.
