Novel Neurotechnologies – Developments and Trends

Neurotechnologies are currently developing rapidly with the help of AI and advances in device design. New and more versatile applications are emerging, including potential uses in everyday life, at work and for leisure. The spectrum ranges from headsets that promote concentration or well-being to prostheses and exoskeletons to brain implants that translate thoughts into movement or speech.

The German Ethics Council is currently examining the ethical issues associated with these developments. In this hearing, it wants to gain an overview: Which innovations are shaping research? What goals are science and industry pursuing – and what expectations are realistic?

Together with experts from Germany, England and the USA, the Ethics Council will discuss the following questions:

• Which neurotechnologies could soon become part of everyday life – for example, in education, the workplace or leisure activities?
• Can neurotechnologies read thoughts – or even influence them?
• What possibilities exist for using neurotechnologies to record – and perhaps even control – emotions, attention or mental states?
• What future applications are conceivable for neurotechnology-supported exoskeletons and other forms of physical augmentation?
• What ethical challenges do the experts see in their respective fields of research?