Is It Possible to Hack the Human Brain?
Despite humankind’s belief that our technology is highly evolved, a significant portion of the universe remains shrouded in mystery. From the deepest ocean trenches to the most distant corners of space, vast areas of Earth and the cosmos remain beyond our comprehension. Yet, an even deeper mystery exists right within us: the human brain.
Among all the known structures in existence, the human brain stands unmatched in complexity. Since ancient Egypt, humanity has attempted — and failed — to fully grasp its workings. Even today, neuroscientists and AI development experts struggle to decode how information is processed, how memories are stored and recalled, how different brain systems interconnect, and, ironically, what intelligence truly is.
Despite these challenges, progress has been made. Since psychologist Frank Rosenblatt introduced the Perceptron in 1957, engineers have slowly developed devices capable of interacting with the brain. Today, neurotechnology and AI development has made remarkable strides.
Superhuman Potential
In a mission reminiscent of a Marvel movie, the American startup Neuralink is working on high-bandwidth brain-machine interfaces (BMIs) aimed at one day enabling humans to connect with computers and each other telepathically. Similarly, San Francisco-based bioinformatics company Emotiv has brought us closer to telekinesis with prototypes that allow users to move toy cars by simply imagining a moving cube. While this technology is undeniably impressive, early tests show that users need training to operate the device, must practise several times, and may still find it difficult to maintain focus.
Altered Brain States
For those overwhelmed by the fast pace of modern life, some startups are leveraging neurotechnology to help induce calm and meditative states. Muse headbands — priced at £239 ($310) — aim to guide users towards a stress-free existence by using weather sounds that adapt to their mental state. Although reviews of Muse’s accompanying software have been mixed, the project shows potential.
Likewise, tech company Thync has introduced its own headset with even more ambitious objectives. The device sends electrical currents through the skull, altering mood by shifting the brain into calm or energised states. While some users compare the experience to a cannabis-like high, various experts and regulatory bodies consider Thync’s device fully legal and safe. However, its novelty means no long-term studies have been conducted, leaving some potential users hesitant.
Advances in Neurotechnology
Kernel is another remarkable initiative founded by self-made millionaire Bryan Johnson. This Los Angeles-based company is working on neurotechnology to restore typical cognitive function in individuals with neurological disorders and impairments. Similarly, Brainsgate, another medical firm, is pursuing a comparable path. Beyond providing relief for chronic headache disorders, Brainsgate believes its technology could eventually treat conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, dementia, and even stroke.
The Path Ahead
While these innovations are undeniably exciting, it may be surprising to learn that they are still built on Rosenblatt’s outdated and biologically inaccurate model of the brain. As a result, many current BMIs and neural networks produce inconsistent and imprecise results. Fortunately, ongoing research is challenging this old paradigm, offering hope for a more accurate approach to future advancements.
In a 2014 paper, A. Redozubov introduced his pattern-wave model of brain function, suggesting neurons communicate by emitting wave signals throughout the brain; his model has shown closer alignment with how the brain works in reality.
While leading companies such as Software Planet Group believe that the future of neurotechnology looks promising as the transition to the pattern-wave model gathers momentum, for now the complete deciphering of the human brain remains as elusive as exploring distant galaxies or unlocking the secrets of the uncharted depths of the ocean.
