Does brain-computer interface-based mind reading threaten mental privacy? ethical reflections from interviews with...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Computer Science
• Ethics

Background:

• Brain-computer interface (BCI) development raises privacy concerns regarding mind-reading capabilities.
• Scholarly proposals for neurorights aim to protect mental privacy.
• Uncertainty exists regarding BCIs' ability to decode inner thoughts and their unique ethical implications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore Chinese experts' perspectives on the concept, feasibility, and limitations of BCI-based mind reading (BMR).
• To analyze the technical and ethical dimensions of BMR.

Main Methods:

• Semi-structured interviews with 20 experts in BCI and neuroscience.
• Reflexive thematic analysis of interview transcriptions.

Main Results:

• Experts hold diverse views on BMR interpretations and feasibility.
• Most experts believe current BCIs cannot decode inner thoughts, citing technical challenges like signal quality and reliance on background data.
• Potential for future advancements in BMR is acknowledged.

Conclusions:

• Distinction made between "strong BMR" and "weak BMR" to clarify technical and ethical aspects.
• Current BMR does not present unique ethical challenges compared to other mind-reading methods.
• A distinct right to mental privacy based on current BMR is not yet justified.