Brain–Computer Interfaces and User Responsibility

Abstract

Brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) allow people to control external devices using only the power of their thoughts. This chapter explores BCIs in terms of individual user responsibility. Firstly, BCIs are introduced. Following this, the concept of individual responsibility is discussed. After that three novel aspects of BCIs that will have an impact on user responsibility are outlined. These are the control of external things via the mind alone, the possibility of subconscious thoughts as actuators of BCI devices, and mind-melding via BCIs. Then the analysis focuses on claims regarding (a) the effect of BCIs on the extent of responsibility, and (b) the allocation of responsibility.