A Moratorium on Implantable Non-Medical Neurotech Until Effects on the Mind are Properly Understood

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Bioethics
• Technology Regulation

Background:

• Non-medical consumer neurotechnology, including brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), is rapidly advancing.
• The increasing prevalence of these technologies necessitates proactive regulatory frameworks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose concrete regulatory measures for non-medical neurotechnologies.
• To advocate for a human rights-based approach to technology regulation.

Main Methods:

• Proposal of three key regulatory measures.
• Emphasis on a human rights-based framework for assessing neurotechnology risks and benefits.

Main Results:

• Recommendation 1: Development and implementation of a mandatory Mental Impact Assessment for neurotechnologies.
• Recommendation 2: A moratorium on the market placement of non-medical implantable neurotech until assessments and ethical concerns are resolved.
• Recommendation 3: A ban on implantable consumer neurotechnology for children.

Conclusions:

• These proposed measures are initial steps toward establishing market requirements for neurotechnologies.
• Neurotechnologies pose potential risks to mental health, integrity, and societal dynamics, necessitating careful regulation.