The functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) can be used to detect and locate brain activity, and even predict the brain activation patterns. This technology helps us understand better how the brain processes information and thoughts. However, there are some potential ethical problems associated with this new technology. For example, the terrorists may use it to purloin the classified information by analyzing the brain activities of officials in charge; cracksman may use it to read the password of customers’ account; commercial spies may steal information with the help of this technology to undergo illegal trades.
All of the above will cause panic of the public if this technology is out of control. Therefore, how can we reduce the unethical abuses of the technology of analyzing brain? In terms of the technology itself, we can develop a kind of software within the system that requires the permit of the one being analyzed by entering password or scanning the fingerprint or retina. Otherwise, we can also develop the system so that it must be operated with the cooperation of the one being analyzed, for example, certain kinds of concentration in mind. In addition, in terms of avoiding improper and unethical use, we should have a strict regulation of the manufacture, development and transportation. Any kind of research or usage of this technology should be approved by related legislature. This will somehow decrease the risk of the abuse of brain analysis.
The possible solutions proposed above should be adjusted along with the development of this technology. At the present level, analysis of brain activity is still in the basic stage, that is, prediction of some concrete images; the equipment used to practice this technology is still not convenient for unethical abuses discussed above. However, with the deeper research and development of the technology of reading and mapping brain, more possible abuses may occur. Scientists that head into brain analysis should consider the ethical issues and develop possible feasible solutions at the same time.
1 条评论:
Wow. Good vocabulary you have there in the introduction! I've never seen those words before. Your content is rich in good elabortion on your views on minimizing potential misuse of the research. You've made a vast improvement on your usage of grammars since your first blog entry; I can't spot any mistakes yet. Personally, I find this your best entry. In fact, you improveed so much that i might be a bit jealous, haha! *sticks out tongue*
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