Essay Sample about Brain-Computer Interface (BCI)

Introduction

Technology is constantly growing and evolving; new technology has the potential to improve people's lives; for example, the brain-computer interface. Even though technology comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and forms, each of which is unique and should not be compared to others, brain-computer interfacing is one of the most intriguing notions ever devised. “A BCI's goal is to detect and quantify aspects of brain impulses that reflect the users’ intents, then translate these qualities into device commands that fulfill the user's aim in real-time” (Shih, Krusienski, & Jonathan, 2012).

 What is Brain-Computer Interfacing?

A Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) is a computer-based system that collects and analyzes brain signals, converts them into commands, sends them to output devices, and performs the desired actions. According to (Cumming School of Medicine, n.d.), individuals using brain-computer interfaces can control, communicate, and interact without using their muscles. A brain-computer interface has three main components; “a device that measures brain activity, a computer that processes and analyzes that activity, and an application device that controls (once the computer has 'determined' what the user wants to do, it will send a signal to the application/device to carry out that command).”

The History of Brain-Computer Interfaces

Like everything else in society, brain-computer interfaces rely on the contributions of others. BCI’s were explored in the 1970s at the University of California, according to "The Brief History of Brain-Computer Interfaces,” The majority of BCI's innovative research focused on neuroprosthetics, which was initially sent out in the 1990s and can aid in the restoration of lost sight, hearing, and development. Later in 2001, John Donoghue and his collaborators set out to develop a brain-computer interface. In 2004, Matthew Nagle was the first person to be implanted with a BCI. Jonathan Wolpaw and analysts from the Wadsworth Center of the New York State Department of Health published a study in December 2004 proving the ability to control a computer using a BCI (Brain Vision UK, 2014). Scientists have continued to build on each other's work to produce and develop something remarkable ever since. 

How Do Brain-Computer Interfaces Help Us?

“BCI systems were initially designed for people that suffer from locked-in syndrome, (i.e., which refers to the inability to move, speak, blink, or even more their eyes and faces as a result of losing all voluntary muscular control)” (Cumming School of Medicine, n.d.). BCI’s have been investigated and developed over time, and they now give a solution to a range of additional problems. “People who are paralyzed due to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), brainstem stroke, or other illnesses can use BCI’s to communicate their needs and wants to others, control a wheelchair, and maybe run word processors or other software” (Elsevier, 2013). It is implied that if BCI’s are further developed and researched, those with severe disabilities could benefit greatly from them. 

The Consequences of Brain-Computer Interfaces

BCI’s are far from flawless pieces of technology, and, unfortunately, we don't know what types of problems or unforeseen conditions they'll face. Furthermore, BCI’s can also be hacked, just like any other technology. “Hackers can gain access to the BCI headband and use it to modify and transmit EEG data. All data sent over BCI can be intercepted and modified by hackers. These hazards may jeopardize our bodily well-being. Your brain's data could be seized and be used to blackmail you” (Gonfalonieri, 2020). Is it right that we are glorifying a piece of technology? Who would oversee this data? Do we trust them with valuable information? There would need to be various laws and policies in place for BCIs to work with humanity at the same time.

Conclusion

It may be difficult to comprehend that such technology exists. In science fiction writings, technology is frequently at the centre of the future, and BCI’s may become a key new means of communication in the future. When this notion is further examined and studied in the next years, the benefits will be substantial. “Not only will BCI’s become a tool for persons with disabilities—but maybe for the broader population as well—with improved hardware and, most importantly, higher reliability” (Shih, Krusienski, & Jonathan, 2012).