Big Tech Wants to Harvest Your Thoughts
Researchers have successfully used holographic laser systems to map and manipulate specific neurons in mice, effectively implanting visual perceptions. By stimulating the visual cortex, scientists were able to control the behavior of the mice as if they were seeing external stimuli.
Why it matters
This breakthrough in neurotechnology highlights the potential for direct brain-computer interfaces to influence perception and behavior, raising profound ethical questions about cognitive privacy.
“He discovered by chance that the strongest stimulus is a pattern of high-contrast dark and light bars.” He held up one hand and waved his fingers back and forth. “If you imagine my fingers were bars of light surrounded by complete blackness—if I move my fingers in front of your eyes, that fires up your whole visual cortex.”
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in