Brain–computer interface: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 06:45, 24 June 2004

Revision as of 17:47, 24 June 2004

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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 [[conciousnessconsciousness]] 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 existence" 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.

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The current state of the art can be more accurately described as a direct brain-computer interface. The distinguishing point being that the mind or consciousness is completely seated in the organic brain and there is a sharing of impulses that sends data between a brain and an electronic device.

A true direct mind-computer interface implies that full integration between the conciousconscious entity, and a computational device. Such a linking might allow for a consciousness which is an emergent property of an organism's brain to migrate into an inorganic device holisticly. It may entail simply expanding or enhancing the existing concsciousness.