Decentralising the Self – Ethical Considerations in Utilizing Decentralised Web Technology for Direct Brain Interfaces

Journal article

The rapidly advancing field of brain-computer (BCI) and brain-to-brain interfaces (BBI) is stimulating interest across various sectors including medicine, entertainment, research, and military. The developers of large-scale brain-computer networks, sometimes dubbed ‘Mindplexes’ or ‘Cloudminds’, aim to enhance cognitive functions by distributing them across expansive networks. A key technical challenge is the efficient transmission and storage of information. One proposed solution is employing blockchain technology over Web 3.0 to create decentralised cognitive entities. This paper explores the potential of a decentralised web for coordinating large brain-computer constellations, and its associated benefits, focusing in particular on the conceptual and ethical challenges this innovation may pose pertaining to (1) Identity, (2) Sovereignty (encompassing Autonomy, Authenticity, and Ownership), (3) Responsibility and Accountability, and (4) Privacy, Safety, and Security. We suggest that while a decentralised web can address some concerns and mitigate certain risks, underlying ethical issues persist. Fundamental questions about entity definition within these networks, the distinctions between individuals and collectives, and responsibility distribution within and between networks, demand further exploration.

Authors: Lyreskog, DM; Zohny, H; Mann, SP; Singh, I; Savulescu, J

• Publication status: Published
• Peer review status: Peer reviewed
• Publisher: Springer
• Journal: Science and Engineering Ethics
• Volume: 30
• Issue: 4
• Article number: 28
• Publication date: 2024-07-16
• Acceptance date: 2024-06-08
• DOI: 10.1007/s11948-024-00492-2
• EISSN: 1471-5546
• ISSN: 1353-3452
• Language: English
• Keywords: Web3; Hybrid intelligence; Brain-Brain interfaces; Brain-Computer interfaces; Blockchain