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Magee P, Ienca M, Farahany N. Beyond neural data: Cognitive biometrics and mental privacy. Neuron 2024; 112:3017-3028. [PMID: 39326392 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2024.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024]
Abstract
Innovations in wearable technology and artificial intelligence have enabled consumer devices to process and transmit data about human mental states (cognitive, affective, and conative) through what this paper refers to as "cognitive biometrics." Devices such as brain-computer interfaces, extended reality headsets, and fitness wearables offer significant benefits in health, wellness, and entertainment through the collection and processing and cognitive biometric data. However, they also pose unique risks to mental privacy due to their ability to infer sensitive information about individuals. This paper challenges the current approach to protecting individuals through legal protections for "neural data" and advocates for a more expansive legal and industry framework, as recently reflected in the draft UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of Neurotechnology, to holistically address both neural and cognitive biometric data. Incorporating this broader and more inclusive approach into legislation and product design can facilitate responsible innovation while safeguarding individuals' mental privacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Magee
- Duke Initiative for Science & Society, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Marcello Ienca
- School of Medicine and Health & TUM School of Social Sciences and Technology, Technical University of Munich (TUM), München, Germany; College of Humanities, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nita Farahany
- Duke Initiative for Science & Society, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Duke University School of Law, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
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2
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Giehl K, Mutsaerts HJ, Aarts K, Barkhof F, Caspers S, Chetelat G, Colin ME, Düzel E, Frisoni GB, Ikram MA, Jovicich J, Morbelli S, Oertel W, Paret C, Perani D, Ritter P, Segura B, Wisse LEM, De Witte E, Cappa SF, van Eimeren T. Sharing brain imaging data in the Open Science era: how and why? Lancet Digit Health 2024; 6:e526-e535. [PMID: 38906618 DOI: 10.1016/s2589-7500(24)00069-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
The sharing of human neuroimaging data has great potential to accelerate the development of imaging biomarkers in neurological and psychiatric disorders; however, major obstacles remain in terms of how and why to share data in the Open Science context. In this Health Policy by the European Cluster for Imaging Biomarkers, we outline the current main opportunities and challenges based on the results of an online survey disseminated among senior scientists in the field. Although the scientific community fully recognises the importance of data sharing, technical, legal, and motivational aspects often prevent active adoption. Therefore, we provide practical advice on how to overcome the technical barriers. We also call for a harmonised application of the General Data Protection Regulation across EU countries. Finally, we suggest the development of a system that makes data count by recognising the generation and sharing of data as a highly valuable contribution to the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Giehl
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Institute of Neurosciences and Medicine (INM-2), Research Center Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Henk-Jan Mutsaerts
- Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Medical Center, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Amsterdam Neuroscience, Brain Imaging, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Frederik Barkhof
- Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Medical Center, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Amsterdam Neuroscience, Brain Imaging, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Queen Square Institute of Neurology and Centre for Medical Image Computing, University College London, London, UK
| | - Svenja Caspers
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-1), Research Center Jülich, Jülich, Germany; Institute for Anatomy I, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Gaël Chetelat
- Normandie université, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, NeuroPresage Team, Cyceron, Caen, France
| | | | - Emrah Düzel
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute for Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research, University of Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Giovanni B Frisoni
- Department of Rehabilitation and Geriatrics, Memory Center, Geneva University and University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - M Arfan Ikram
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jorge Jovicich
- Center for Mind/Brain Sciences, University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy
| | - Silvia Morbelli
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, AOU Città Della Salute e Della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy; Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Wolfgang Oertel
- European Brain Council, Brussels, Belgium; Department of Neurology, University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Christian Paret
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim/Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Daniela Perani
- San Raffaele University and San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Petra Ritter
- Berlin Institute of Health, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany; Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany; Bernstein Focus State Dependencies of Learning and Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, Berlin, Germany; Einstein Center for Neuroscience Berlin, Berlin, Germany; Einstein Center Digital Future, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bàrbara Segura
- Medical Psychology Unit, Department of Medicine, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Hospital Clinic Foundation for Biomedical Research-August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain; Biomedical Research Networking Center on Neurodegenerative Diseases Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura E M Wisse
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Elke De Witte
- Neurosurgical Department, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Stefano F Cappa
- University Institute of Advanced Studies, Pavia, Italy; IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Thilo van Eimeren
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
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Muñoz JM, Marinaro JÁ, Iglesias JA, Sánchez M, Monti N, Colombara C, Girardi G. Effects of the first successful lawsuit against a consumer neurotechnology company for violating brain data privacy. Nat Biotechnol 2024; 42:1015-1016. [PMID: 38902528 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-024-02303-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- José M Muñoz
- Kavli Center for Ethics, Science, and the Public, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA.
- Institute of Neurotechnology and Law, London, UK.
- International Center for Neuroscience and Ethics (CINET), Tatiana Foundation, Madrid, Spain.
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Rainey S. An Anticipatory Approach to Ethico-Legal Implications of Future Neurotechnology. SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING ETHICS 2024; 30:18. [PMID: 38748291 PMCID: PMC11096192 DOI: 10.1007/s11948-024-00482-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
This paper provides a justificatory rationale for recommending the inclusion of imagined future use cases in neurotechnology development processes, specifically for legal and policy ends. Including detailed imaginative engagement with future applications of neurotechnology can serve to connect ethical, legal, and policy issues potentially arising from the translation of brain stimulation research to the public consumer domain. Futurist scholars have for some time recommended approaches that merge creative arts with scientific development in order to theorise possible futures toward which current trends in technology development might be steered. Taking a creative, imaginative approach like this in the neurotechnology context can help move development processes beyond considerations of device functioning, safety, and compliance with existing regulation, and into an active engagement with potential future dynamics brought about by the emergence of the neurotechnology itself. Imagined scenarios can engage with potential consumer uses of devices that might come to challenge legal or policy contexts. An anticipatory, creative approach can imagine what such uses might consist in, and what they might imply. Justifying this approach also prompts a co-responsibility perspective for policymaking in technology contexts. Overall, this furnishes a mode of neurotechnology's emergence that can avoid crises of confidence in terms of ethico-legal issues, and promote policy responses balanced between knowledge, values, protected innovation potential, and regulatory safeguards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Rainey
- Department of Values, Technology and Innovation (VTI), Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands.
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Susser D, Cabrera LY. Brain Data in Context: Are New Rights the Way to Mental and Brain Privacy? AJOB Neurosci 2024; 15:122-133. [PMID: 37017379 DOI: 10.1080/21507740.2023.2188275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
The potential to collect brain data more directly, with higher resolution, and in greater amounts has heightened worries about mental and brain privacy. In order to manage the risks to individuals posed by these privacy challenges, some have suggested codifying new privacy rights, including a right to "mental privacy." In this paper, we consider these arguments and conclude that while neurotechnologies do raise significant privacy concerns, such concerns are-at least for now-no different from those raised by other well-understood data collection technologies, such as gene sequencing tools and online surveillance. To better understand the privacy stakes of brain data, we suggest the use of a conceptual framework from information ethics, Helen Nissenbaum's "contextual integrity" theory. To illustrate the importance of context, we examine neurotechnologies and the information flows they produce in three familiar contexts-healthcare and medical research, criminal justice, and consumer marketing. We argue that by emphasizing what is distinct about brain privacy issues, rather than what they share with other data privacy concerns, risks weakening broader efforts to enact more robust privacy law and policy.
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Livanis E, Voultsos P, Vadikolias K, Pantazakos P, Tsaroucha A. Understanding the Ethical Issues of Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs): A Blessing or the Beginning of a Dystopian Future? Cureus 2024; 16:e58243. [PMID: 38745805 PMCID: PMC11091939 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.58243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, scientific discoveries in the field of neuroscience combined with developments in the field of artificial intelligence have led to the development of a range of neurotechnologies. Advances in neuroimaging systems, neurostimulators, and brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are leading to new ways of enhancing, controlling, and "reading" the brain. In addition, although BCIs were developed and used primarily in the medical field, they are now increasingly applied in other fields (entertainment, marketing, education, defense industry). We conducted a literature review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to provide background information about ethical issues related to the use of BCIs. Among the ethical issues that emerged from the thematic data analysis of the reviewed studies included questions revolving around human dignity, personhood and autonomy, user safety, stigma and discrimination, privacy and security, responsibility, research ethics, and social justice (including access to this technology). This paper attempts to address the various aspects of these concerns. A variety of distinct ethical issues were identified, which, for the most part, were in line with the findings of prior research. However, we identified two nuances, which are related to the empirical research on ethical issues related to BCIs and the impact of BCIs on international relationships. The paper also highlights the need for the cooperation of all stakeholders to ensure the ethical development and use of this technology and concludes with several recommendations. The principles of bioethics provide an initial guiding framework, which, however, should be revised in the current artificial intelligence landscape so as to be responsive to challenges posed by the development and use of BCIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efstratios Livanis
- Department of Accounting and Finance, University of Macedonia, Thessaloniki, GRC
- Postgraduate Program on Bioethics, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupoli, GRC
| | - Polychronis Voultsos
- Laboratory of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology (Medical Law and Ethics) School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, GRC
- Postgraduate Program on Bioethics, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupoli, GRC
| | - Konstantinos Vadikolias
- Postgraduate Program on Bioethics, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupoli, GRC
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Alexandroupoli, GRC
| | - Panagiotis Pantazakos
- Department of Philosophy, School of Philosophy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, GRC
- Postgraduate Program on Bioethics, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupoli, GRC
| | - Alexandra Tsaroucha
- Postgraduate Program on Bioethics, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupoli, GRC
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Bublitz JC. What an International Declaration on Neurotechnologies and Human Rights Could Look like: Ideas, Suggestions, Desiderata. AJOB Neurosci 2024; 15:96-112. [PMID: 37921859 DOI: 10.1080/21507740.2023.2270512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
International institutions such as UNESCO are deliberating on a new standard setting instrument for neurotechnologies. This will likely lead to the adoption of a soft law document which will be the first global document specifically tailored to neurotechnologies, setting the tone for further international or domestic regulations. While some stakeholders have been consulted, these developments have so far evaded the broader attention of the neuroscience, neurotech, and neuroethics communities. To initiate a broader debate, this target article puts to discussion twenty-five considerations and desiderata for recognition by a future instrument. They are formulated at different levels of abstraction, from the big picture to technical details, seek to widen the perspective of preparatory reports and transcend the narrow debate about "neurorights" which overshadows many richer and more relevant aspects. These desiderata are not an exhaustive enumeration but a starting point for discussions about what deserves and what requires protection by an international instrument.
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Hurley ME, Sonig A, Herrington J, Storch EA, Lázaro-Muñoz G, Blumenthal-Barby J, Kostick-Quenet K. Ethical considerations for integrating multimodal computer perception and neurotechnology. Front Hum Neurosci 2024; 18:1332451. [PMID: 38435745 PMCID: PMC10904467 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2024.1332451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Artificial intelligence (AI)-based computer perception technologies (e.g., digital phenotyping and affective computing) promise to transform clinical approaches to personalized care in psychiatry and beyond by offering more objective measures of emotional states and behavior, enabling precision treatment, diagnosis, and symptom monitoring. At the same time, passive and continuous nature by which they often collect data from patients in non-clinical settings raises ethical issues related to privacy and self-determination. Little is known about how such concerns may be exacerbated by the integration of neural data, as parallel advances in computer perception, AI, and neurotechnology enable new insights into subjective states. Here, we present findings from a multi-site NCATS-funded study of ethical considerations for translating computer perception into clinical care and contextualize them within the neuroethics and neurorights literatures. Methods We conducted qualitative interviews with patients (n = 20), caregivers (n = 20), clinicians (n = 12), developers (n = 12), and clinician developers (n = 2) regarding their perspective toward using PC in clinical care. Transcripts were analyzed in MAXQDA using Thematic Content Analysis. Results Stakeholder groups voiced concerns related to (1) perceived invasiveness of passive and continuous data collection in private settings; (2) data protection and security and the potential for negative downstream/future impacts on patients of unintended disclosure; and (3) ethical issues related to patients' limited versus hyper awareness of passive and continuous data collection and monitoring. Clinicians and developers highlighted that these concerns may be exacerbated by the integration of neural data with other computer perception data. Discussion Our findings suggest that the integration of neurotechnologies with existing computer perception technologies raises novel concerns around dignity-related and other harms (e.g., stigma, discrimination) that stem from data security threats and the growing potential for reidentification of sensitive data. Further, our findings suggest that patients' awareness and preoccupation with feeling monitored via computer sensors ranges from hypo- to hyper-awareness, with either extreme accompanied by ethical concerns (consent vs. anxiety and preoccupation). These results highlight the need for systematic research into how best to implement these technologies into clinical care in ways that reduce disruption, maximize patient benefits, and mitigate long-term risks associated with the passive collection of sensitive emotional, behavioral and neural data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan E. Hurley
- Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Anika Sonig
- Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - John Herrington
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Eric A. Storch
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Gabriel Lázaro-Muñoz
- Center for Bioethics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | - Kristin Kostick-Quenet
- Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
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Lewis A, Young MJ, Rohaut B, Jox RJ, Claassen J, Creutzfeldt CJ, Illes J, Kirschen M, Trevick S, Fins JJ. Ethics Along the Continuum of Research Involving Persons with Disorders of Consciousness. Neurocrit Care 2023; 39:565-577. [PMID: 36977963 PMCID: PMC11023737 DOI: 10.1007/s12028-023-01708-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Interest in disorders of consciousness (DoC) has grown substantially over the past decade and has illuminated the importance of improving understanding of DoC biology; care needs (use of monitoring, performance of interventions, and provision of emotional support); treatment options to promote recovery; and outcome prediction. Exploration of these topics requires awareness of numerous ethics considerations related to rights and resources. The Curing Coma Campaign Ethics Working Group used its expertise in neurocritical care, neuropalliative care, neuroethics, neuroscience, philosophy, and research to formulate an informal review of ethics considerations along the continuum of research involving persons with DoC related to the following: (1) study design; (2) comparison of risks versus benefits; (3) selection of inclusion and exclusion criteria; (4) screening, recruitment, and enrollment; (5) consent; (6) data protection; (7) disclosure of results to surrogates and/or legally authorized representatives; (8) translation of research into practice; (9) identification and management of conflicts of interest; (10) equity and resource availability; and (11) inclusion of minors with DoC in research. Awareness of these ethics considerations when planning and performing research involving persons with DoC will ensure that the participant rights are respected while maximizing the impact and meaningfulness of the research, interpretation of outcomes, and communication of results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariane Lewis
- NYU Langone Medical Center, 530 First Avenue, Skirball-7R, New York, NY, 10016, USA.
| | - Michael J Young
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Benjamin Rohaut
- Inserm, CNRS, APHP - Hôpital de la Pitié Salpêtrière, Paris Brain Institute - ICM, DMU Neuroscience, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
| | - Ralf J Jox
- Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jan Claassen
- New York Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Claire J Creutzfeldt
- Harborview Medical Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Cambia Palliative Care Center of Excellence, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Judy Illes
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | | | - Joseph J Fins
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
- Yale Law School, New Haven, CT, USA
- Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
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Ochang P, Eke D, Stahl BC. Towards an understanding of global brain data governance: ethical positions that underpin global brain data governance discourse. Front Big Data 2023; 6:1240660. [PMID: 38025947 PMCID: PMC10665841 DOI: 10.3389/fdata.2023.1240660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The study of the brain continues to generate substantial volumes of data, commonly referred to as "big brain data," which serves various purposes such as the treatment of brain-related diseases, the development of neurotechnological devices, and the training of algorithms. This big brain data, generated in different jurisdictions, is subject to distinct ethical and legal principles, giving rise to various ethical and legal concerns during collaborative efforts. Understanding these ethical and legal principles and concerns is crucial, as it catalyzes the development of a global governance framework, currently lacking in this field. While prior research has advocated for a contextual examination of brain data governance, such studies have been limited. Additionally, numerous challenges, issues, and concerns surround the development of a contextually informed brain data governance framework. Therefore, this study aims to bridge these gaps by exploring the ethical foundations that underlie contextual stakeholder discussions on brain data governance. Method In this study we conducted a secondary analysis of interviews with 21 neuroscientists drafted from the International Brain Initiative (IBI), LATBrain Initiative and the Society of Neuroscientists of Africa (SONA) who are involved in various brain projects globally and employing ethical theories. Ethical theories provide the philosophical frameworks and principles that inform the development and implementation of data governance policies and practices. Results The results of the study revealed various contextual ethical positions that underscore the ethical perspectives of neuroscientists engaged in brain data research globally. Discussion This research highlights the multitude of challenges and deliberations inherent in the pursuit of a globally informed framework for governing brain data. Furthermore, it sheds light on several critical considerations that require thorough examination in advancing global brain data governance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paschal Ochang
- Centre for Computing and Social Responsibility, De Montfort University, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Damian Eke
- Centre for Computing and Social Responsibility, De Montfort University, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Bernd Carsten Stahl
- Centre for Computing and Social Responsibility, De Montfort University, Leicester, United Kingdom
- School of Computer Science, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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González-Tapia MI. Virtual emotions and Criminal Law. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1260425. [PMID: 38022971 PMCID: PMC10643869 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1260425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
This article examines the role that Criminal Law should play in regulating the non-therapeutic use of immersive Virtual Reality (VR), specifically its massive use by consumers. The starting point has been to consider VR as an intermediate risk scenario, for the purposes of Criminal Law, between the criminality entirely generated in the physical world and that developed in the 2D digital environments [cybercrimes and criminality linked to social networks and persuasive Artificial Intelligence (AI)]. Firstly, specialize literature has been analyzed to establish the nature of virtual reality. From a technical standpoint, virtual reality is a neurotechnology infused with high-risk artificial intelligence; an inseparable synthesis of non-invasive neurotechnology and a set of AI systems, considered high-risk for the fundamental rights of citizens. From the perspective of its functioning, VR is a "transformative" neurotechnology capable of altering what people perceive as reality. This is possible, because its realism lies in the emotional immersion of the user in the virtual experience, similarly to how our brain functions. Therefore, the key idea in the immersive functioning of virtual reality is its capacity to evoke and modify human emotions, which results its greater harmful potential compared to the 2D environment. From there, three central and specific areas of (legally unaddressed) risk arise: (1) the special comprehensive nature of the data collected and stored during its use; (2) its ability to mentally reproduce the "physical" experience of the avatar in the user; and (3) its significant capacity to manipulate individuals. Secondly, the paper examines both the reported cases and the foreseeable criminality in virtual worlds or "proto-metaverse," focusing on the three risk areas, and exemplifying them with attacks on mental privacy, sexual freedom, and consumer manipulation. Finally, it is proposed that Criminal Law should also intervene (as soon as possible) to define the "red lines" of massive virtual reality use by citizens. With a democratic and human-centered approach, a basic legal framework is outlined for the criminalization of specific harms and risks associated with virtual reality, adapting the existing legal framework as necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Isabel González-Tapia
- Department of Civil, Criminal Law, Procedural Law, Faculty of Law and Business, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
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12
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Yuste R. Advocating for neurodata privacy and neurotechnology regulation. Nat Protoc 2023; 18:2869-2875. [PMID: 37697107 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-023-00873-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
The ability to record and alter brain activity by using implantable and nonimplantable neural devices, while poised to have significant scientific and clinical benefits, also raises complex ethical concerns. In this Perspective, we raise awareness of the ability of artificial intelligence algorithms and data-aggregation tools to decode and analyze data containing highly sensitive information, jeopardizing personal neuroprivacy. Voids in existing regulatory frameworks, in fact, allow unrestricted decoding and commerce of neurodata. We advocate for the implementation of proposed ethical and human rights guidelines, alongside technical options such as data encryption, differential privacy and federated learning to ensure the protection of neurodata privacy. We further encourage regulatory bodies to consider taking a position of responsibility by categorizing all brain-derived data as sensitive health data and apply existing medical regulations to all data gathered via pre-registered neural devices. Lastly, we propose that a technocratic oath may instill a deontology for neurotechnology practitioners akin to what the Hippocratic oath represents in medicine. A conscientious societal position that thoroughly rejects the misuse of neurodata would provide the moral compass for the future development of the neurotechnology field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Yuste
- Neurotechnology Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
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13
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Ishida S, Nishitsutsumi Y, Kashioka H, Taguchi T, Shineha R. A comparative review on neuroethical issues in neuroscientific and neuroethical journals. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1160611. [PMID: 37781239 PMCID: PMC10536163 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1160611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
This study is a pilot literature review that compares the interest of neuroethicists and neuroscientists. It aims to determine whether there is a significant gap between the neuroethical issues addressed in philosophical neuroethics journals and neuroscience journals. We retrieved 614 articles from two specialist neuroethics journals (Neuroethics and AJOB Neuroscience) and 82 neuroethics-focused articles from three specialist neuroscience journals (Neuron, Nature Neuroscience, and Nature Reviews Neuroscience). We classified these articles in light of the neuroethical issue in question before we compared the neuroethical issues addressed in philosophical neuroethics with those addressed by neuroscientists. A notable result is a parallelism between them as a general tendency. Neuroscientific articles cover most neuroethical issues discussed by philosophical ethicists and vice versa. Subsequently, there are notable discrepancies between the two bodies of neuroethics literature. For instance, theoretical questions, such as the ethics of moral enhancement and the philosophical implications of neuroscientific findings on our conception of personhood, are more intensely discussed in philosophical-neuroethical articles. Conversely, neuroscientific articles tend to emphasize practical questions, such as how to successfully integrate ethical perspectives into scientific research projects and justifiable practices of animal-involving neuroscientific research. These observations will help us settle the common starting point of the attempt at "ethics integration" in emerging neuroscience, contributing to better governance design and neuroethical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Ishida
- Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yu Nishitsutsumi
- Center for Information and Neural Networks, National Institute of Information and Communications Technology, Suita, Japan
| | - Hideki Kashioka
- Center for Information and Neural Networks, National Institute of Information and Communications Technology, Suita, Japan
| | - Takahisa Taguchi
- Center for Information and Neural Networks, National Institute of Information and Communications Technology, Suita, Japan
| | - Ryuma Shineha
- Research Center on Ethical, Legal, and Social Issues, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
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Gilbert F, Ienca M, Cook M. How I became myself after merging with a computer: Does human-machine symbiosis raise human rights issues? Brain Stimul 2023; 16:783-789. [PMID: 37137387 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2023.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Novel usages of brain stimulation combined with artificially intelligent (AI) systems promise to address a large range of diseases. These new conjoined technologies, such as brain-computer interfaces (BCI), are increasingly used in experimental and clinical settings to predict and alleviate symptoms of various neurological and psychiatric disorders. Due to their reliance on AI algorithms for feature extraction and classification, these BCI systems enable a novel, unprecedented, and direct connection between human cognition and artificial information processing. In this paper, we present the results of a study that investigates the phenomenology of human-machine symbiosis during a first-in-human experimental BCI trial designed to predict epileptic seizures. We employed qualitative semi-structured interviews to collect user experience data from a participant over a six-years period. We report on a clinical case where a specific embodied phenomenology emerged: namely, after BCI implantation, the patient reported experiences of increased agential capacity and continuity; and after device explantation, the patient reported persistent traumatic harms linked to agential discontinuity. To our knowledge, this is the first reported clinical case of a patient experiencing persistent agential discontinuity due to BCI explantation and potential evidence of an infringement on patient right, where the implanted person was robbed of her de novo agential capacities when the device was removed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederic Gilbert
- EthicsLab, Philosophy & Gender Studies, School of Humanities, College of Arts, Law and Education, University of Tasmania, Australia.
| | - Marcello Ienca
- Institute for Ethics and History of Medicine, School of Medicine - Technische Universität München (TUM), Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, München, Germany; Intelligent Systems Ethics Group, College of Humanities (CDH), Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL), Switzerland
| | - Mark Cook
- Division Engineering and IT - Biomedical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Australia; The Sir John Eccles Chair of Medicine, Director of Clinical Neurosciences, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
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Wu Z, Lohmöller J, Kuhl C, Wehrle K, Jankowski J. Use of Computation Ecosystems to Analyze the Kidney-Heart Crosstalk. Circ Res 2023; 132:1084-1100. [PMID: 37053282 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.123.321765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
The identification of mediators for physiologic processes, correlation of molecular processes, or even pathophysiological processes within a single organ such as the kidney or heart has been extensively studied to answer specific research questions using organ-centered approaches in the past 50 years. However, it has become evident that these approaches do not adequately complement each other and display a distorted single-disease progression, lacking holistic multilevel/multidimensional correlations. Holistic approaches have become increasingly significant in understanding and uncovering high dimensional interactions and molecular overlaps between different organ systems in the pathophysiology of multimorbid and systemic diseases like cardiorenal syndrome because of pathological heart-kidney crosstalk. Holistic approaches to unraveling multimorbid diseases are based on the integration, merging, and correlation of extensive, heterogeneous, and multidimensional data from different data sources, both -omics and nonomics databases. These approaches aimed at generating viable and translatable disease models using mathematical, statistical, and computational tools, thereby creating first computational ecosystems. As part of these computational ecosystems, systems medicine solutions focus on the analysis of -omics data in single-organ diseases. However, the data-scientific requirements to address the complexity of multimodality and multimorbidity reach far beyond what is currently available and require multiphased and cross-sectional approaches. These approaches break down complexity into small and comprehensible challenges. Such holistic computational ecosystems encompass data, methods, processes, and interdisciplinary knowledge to manage the complexity of multiorgan crosstalk. Therefore, this review summarizes the current knowledge of kidney-heart crosstalk, along with methods and opportunities that arise from the novel application of computational ecosystems providing a holistic analysis on the example of kidney-heart crosstalk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuojun Wu
- Institute of Molecular Cardiovascular Research (Z.W., J.J.), Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen University, Germany
- Department of Radiology (C.K.), Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen University, Germany
| | - Johannes Lohmöller
- Medical Faculty, and Department of Computer Science, Communication and Distributed Systems (COMSYS) (J.L., K.W.), Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen University, Germany
| | - Christiane Kuhl
- Department of Radiology (C.K.), Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen University, Germany
| | - Klaus Wehrle
- Institute of Molecular Cardiovascular Research (Z.W., J.J.), Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen University, Germany
- Medical Faculty, and Department of Computer Science, Communication and Distributed Systems (COMSYS) (J.L., K.W.), Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen University, Germany
| | - Joachim Jankowski
- Institute of Molecular Cardiovascular Research (Z.W., J.J.), Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen University, Germany
- Department of Pathology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), University of Maastricht, The Netherlands (J.J.)
- Aachen-Maastricht Institute for Cardiorenal Disease (AMICARE), University Hospital Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen, Germany (J.J.)
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Lavazza A, Giorgi R. Philosophical foundation of the right to mental integrity in the age of neurotechnologies. NEUROETHICS-NETH 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s12152-023-09517-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
AbstractNeurotechnologies broadly understood are tools that have the capability to read, record and modify our mental activity by acting on its brain correlates. The emergence of increasingly powerful and sophisticated techniques has given rise to the proposal to introduce new rights specifically directed to protect mental privacy, freedom of thought, and mental integrity. These rights, also proposed as basic human rights, are conceived in direct relation to tools that threaten mental privacy, freedom of thought, mental integrity, and personal identity. In this paper, our goal is to give a philosophical foundation to a specific right that we will call right to mental integrity. It encapsulates both the classical concepts of privacy and non-interference in our mind/brain. Such a philosophical foundation refers to certain features of the mind that hitherto could not be reached directly from the outside: intentionality, first-person perspective, personal autonomy in moral choices and in the construction of one's narrative, and relational identity. A variety of neurotechnologies or other tools, including artificial intelligence, alone or in combination can, by their very availability, threaten our mental integrity. Therefore, it is necessary to posit a specific right and provide it with a theoretical foundation and justification. It will be up to a subsequent treatment to define the moral and legal boundaries of such a right and its application.
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Neurorights – Do we Need New Human Rights? A Reconsideration of the Right to Freedom of Thought. NEUROETHICS-NETH 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s12152-022-09511-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
AbstractProgress in neurotechnology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) provides unprecedented insights into the human brain. There are increasing possibilities to influence and measure brain activity. These developments raise multifaceted ethical and legal questions. The proponents of neurorights argue in favour of introducing new human rights to protect mental processes and brain data. This article discusses the necessity and advantages of introducing new human rights focusing on the proposed new human right to mental self-determination and the right to freedom of thought as enshrined in Art.18 International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and Art. 9 European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). I argue that the right to freedom of thought can be coherently interpreted as providing comprehensive protection of mental processes and brain data, thus offering a normative basis regarding the use of neurotechnologies. Besides, I claim that an evolving interpretation of the right to freedom of thought is more convincing than introducing a new human right to mental self-determination.
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Fins JJ. The Unintended Consequences of Chile’s Neurorights Constitutional Reform: Moving beyond Negative Rights to Capabilities. NEUROETHICS-NETH 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12152-022-09504-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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