Brain–computer interface: Difference between revisions

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A '''direct mind-computer interface''' is literally that - a direct [[cybernetic]] link between a [[mind]] and a [[computer]]. For purposes of this term, the word 'mind' is usually understood to imply the [[conciousness]] of an [[organism|organic life form]] and 'computer' is usually understood to imply an inorganic processing device of some type. The term 'direct' implies that the exchange of data between the mind and the computer is not handled through intermediate organs such as the eyes, ears, mouth, or hands (currently the most common sets of organs used to interface one's consciousness with a computer).

These semantical notations are crucial in the contemplation of a direct mind-computer interface, as depending on one's point of view as to what the term 'mind' and 'computer' mean, a direct mind-computer interface may fall under various catagories from "already extant" to "possible but not currently in existanceexistence" to "completely impossible". For example, if an individual believed that the 'mind' was an ineffable construct, with no direct link to any physical construct that we can detect, then demonstrating to that individual an electronic coupling between the brain of an animal (of whatever order), and an electronic device would not be a compelling argument.

From a standpoint of pure fact, direct mind-computer interfaces can be said to already exist. There have been many tests in the field of linking an animal's brain cyberneticly to an electronic computing device. From monkey's hardwired into robotic armatures to a blind man that has had CCD chips and neural implants installed which allow him to see, albiet at a very low mono-chromatic resolution.