Minds – the final privacy frontier?

Can AI reveal what someone is thinking?

A team of researchers from the University of Texas at Austin recently?published ?a groundbreaking study, in which they describe a new AI system that can accurately translate a person’s thoughts into a continuous stream of text by analysing images of their brain activity that is captured with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).

Whilst recent innovations promise to revolutionise communication, especially for those with debilitating conditions, and offer a deeper understanding of the intricate workings of the human brain, with such potential also come profound ethical dilemmas. The very idea of decoding thoughts, once confined to the realm of science fiction, now presents serious real-world concerns related to privacy, consent, and potential misuse. As we stand at the cusp of this new frontier, it is imperative to strike a balance between harnessing the transformative power of these technologies and safeguarding the sanctity of our innermost thoughts.

Before neurotechnology is used at scale in society, we need to protect humanity with a right to self-determination over our brains and mental experiences”. Nita Farahany, author of The Battle for Your Brain

The journey ahead requires not just technological prowess but also a deep reflection on our values, ensuring that our advancements respect and uphold the dignity and rights of every individual.

Thought proviking reading, check out the full story (and more!) on futurist Richard van Hooijdonk’s blog: ?https://blog.richardvanhooijdonk.com/en/ai-mind-reading-technology-turns-thoughts-into-text/