Philosophical Reflections on Brain–Computer Interfaces

Abstract

BCI systems are prime examples of the actual and potential changes that novel information and communication technologies are impressing on human–machine interactions, on public debate about the promotion and regulation of technological innovation, and on rational and irrational attitudes towards technological development. This contribution examines the impact that BCI systems are having on these aspects of human life from the distinctive philosophical perspectives of epistemology and scientific method, ethics, philosophy of mind, and philosophical psychology.