Two articles (given week 8), “A computer that can ‘read’ your mind” and “Ethics and mapping the brain”, describe the positive and negative effects brain mapping could have on society. Imagine you are a researcher (of any topic, brain mapping or otherwise). How would you predict and minimize potential unethical abuses of your work? Use approximately 300 words.
Every emerging technology certainly brings about positive and negative effects on the society. Brain mapping is one of such technologies; used to predict and control people’s thoughts as well as determining mental diseases. This technology can be very helpful in mental illnesses’ treatment, psychological therapy and criminal investigation which are beneficial to hospitals, clinics, as well as to the police. On the other hand, the act of abusing it such as, using it to reveal people’s privacy, making money by giving false fortune telling, can brings about negative impact to human beings. However, I find that brain mapping technology is still considered useful if we are able to use it wisely. Therefore, there must be certain measures to be done in order to carry out this technology safely and effectively.
First of all, there must have a restriction to prevent misusing of brain mapping technology. It will be best if the accessibility of this technology is only given to certain areas such as hospitals, polyclinics, courts and police stations. Also, the operating of this technology can only be given rights to highly trained and educated people such as doctors, polices and law officers. This restriction can limit the number of people who have access to use of this technology and the others will not have the chance to abuse it.
Secondly, we have to make sure that this technology gives accurate prediction so that they will not bring negative impacts to the users even when it is used ethically. Taking the case of the air stewardess, Nancy; she was predicted to develop schizophrenia, a mental disorder which will likely to create a threat to the airline industry. Her license was revoked and was fired. (Marano, 2003) What will happen if the prediction given was not accurate? Nancy will lose her job innocently. Thus, there is a need to make sure that brain mapping technology gives accurate readings in order to help the society.
Thirdly, this technology must be tested and ensured that it is safe to use to prevent any harmful effect to the user. This is very important as we cannot treat human lives as guinea pigs. Thus, numerous testing needs to be done to make sure that the devices used for this technology are reliable.
In conclusion, the above factors need to be considered in order to maximize the results of brain mapping. This will naturally contribute positive results to the society.
References
National Science Foundation. (2008, May 30). A Computer that can ‘read ‘ your mind. Retrieved August 6, 2008, from http://www.nsf.gov/news/news_summ.jspcntn_id=111641&org=olpa&from=news
Marano, L. (2003, June 3). Ethics and Mapping the Brain. Washington Times.
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