Reshaping Life and Longevity Through Neurotechnology
Image: Unsplash
In the quest for advancing human existence as we know it, very few companies are as forward thinking and innovative as Neuralink. Founded in 2016 by Elon Musk, along with eight other experts in fields ranging from neuroscience to robotics, Neuralink is a neurotechnology company that strives to merge humans with artificial intelligence (AI). The key solution to this is through their quest to develop implantable brain-machine interfaces (BMIs), which could very well change the way humans interact with technology, process, and store our thoughts.
Neuralink aims to enhance our cognitive capabilities, by developing ultra-high bandwidth brain-machine interfaces. This involves embedding thin threads, which are smaller than strands of hair, into the brain. These tiny threads would then be capable of detecting and transmitting the electrical signals in our brain and transferring them to an external device, effectively recording our brain signals into digital form.
Although this level of cognitive enhancement appears to be Neuralink's long-term goal, the company's initial focus is on the medical applications of their technology. If successful it’s BMI technology could transform treatment methods of neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, psychiatric disorders, and even paralysis, drastically improving the quality of life for sufferers.
For example, it is suggested a Neuralink implant could stimulate neurons in specific areas of the brain to alleviate symptoms of depression or anxiety. It could also restore mobility to those with paralysis by transmitting signals from the brain directly to prosthetic limbs. This could result in so many patients living more independent lives, and place significantly less strain on the health care system.
It could be argued that one of Musk's more ambitious visions for Neuralink would be the ability to achieve a form of 'digital immortality', whereby one could download their consciousness onto a computer, thereby preserving an individual's experiences, memories, and personality indefinitely. Just imagine being able to still “know yourself” and think so clearly once your body ages and eventually leaves you behind. Could our minds be then transported into a new body? Or a completely different structure or realm? The possibilities are endless!
If successful, Neuralink could provide a form of life extension to so many that was previously only dreamt up in science fiction. While Neuralink has yet to receive government approval to begin any human testing on its brain implants, it is currently in the process of testing its technology on animals and in the lab under strict protocols with mixed results.
The brain is a highly complex organ, however as scientific research into the understanding of its functions continues to accelerate at a rapid pace (which will be also aided exponentially by the continual development in AI’s ability to process and think faster and faster), through the incredible work of organisations such as Neuralink the concept of downloading or controlling signals from the brain and even digitising them we could be on the precipice of something truly incredible, which will push the human race into a new era. Whilst the path to regulatory approval will be difficult due to the risks around invasive procedures in the brain, it appears Neuralink is committed to breaking through these barriers and achieving a safe and effective technology that will transform our lives in a way never seen before.
