Are We Humans Or Are We Robots?

First, shout out to the people who connected the title to The Killer's song. Second, I would like to give it up for our parents who have been blindsided by iPhones and same day shipping. Third, it is time to brace ourselves because history is about to be repeated.

In the next 20 to 30 years we can expect technological brain implants to become the norm. These devices are expected to record our brain activity, while giving us "computer-like recall and increased cognitive speed." So instead of waiting for your Adderall to kick in, then possibly having to ride out a tough come down, you can cancel your prescription and get a Franken-brain.

Computer-like brain function isn't the only "perk" though. Scientists are currently using these devices to further study diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and schizophrenia, in addition to creating similar devices that will help people who are blind from retinal damage see again. INFRARED VISION INCLUDED. Even Elon Musk and his company, Neuralink, are jumping on board which I think is a pretty good sign that this is very possible, while further legitimizing my theory that Elon Musk is not human.

In response to privacy concerns, Rob Franklin who is the director of product development for a top neural device company, likens the device to Facebook in that it has the potential to do a lot of good and a lot of bad. In this interview, Franklin even mentions the possibility of mind control, torture and targeting substance abuse, then quickly makes it sound cool again by mentioning how much easier your life would be if you could flip a switch to remember something as opposed to having to scan through your phone for it.

While I thought companies were already taking over our minds through the devices we hold near and dear in our pockets, we will eventually have the option to skip the middle man and put them right into our heads. I am picturing a future where the Facebook scandal looks cute, while Big Brother takes over and turns us into robot slaves. I'm hoping I can look back on this post and say I was overreacting.

From a marketing standpoint, both the interviewer and interviewee did a pretty good job covering the topic in regards to public relations and communication. The interviewer first asked standard questions on how the devices work, how they are already used and how practical their future use would be, then follows up with a couple of emotionally charged questions like how Franklin feels about the invasion of privacy, whether he would get one himself and what we are to do when companies and the government are no longer in our pockets but in our heads. Franklin does a good job painting an innocent picture of these devices while breezing over their harmful potential. He softens the blow by using phrases like, "Ultimately, we will have to decide as a society if this is a technology we can harness and bend to our will in a way that creates more good than evil." This makes readers feel safe, like they will have a say in the collective safety and well being of their society. He gives options, and treats these devices like a "natural extension of where we're already heading with our phones." 

What do you think? 

https://www.wsj.com/articles/a-boost-in-brainpower-but-at-what-cost-1524061181