The first nonverbal patient to receive Elon Musk's Neuralink shares a video he edited and narrated using his brain chip
Business Insider2 days
ALS Patient Makes YouTube Video With Neuralink Brain Control
Above: Brad Smith and his family in a YouTube viedo he created with Neuralink. Image copyright: Brad Smith/YouTube
The Spin
Narrative A
This marks another impressive milestone for Neuralink, yet significant ethical concerns remain regarding its technology. Neuralink has been notably secretive, withholding information that could benefit independent research and public understanding. There can also be unintended consequences from receiving an implant of this nature, including the potential for identity theft or a person's autonomy being manipulated by a third party.
Narrative B
Neuralink has taken another major stride in its enhancement of human-computer interaction. While patients like Smith are benefiting in the short term, this milestone is a sign that that goal of augmenting human potential could eventually be realized. Any ethical concerns should take a backseat to Neuralink's accomplishments, especially when it's enhancing the life of someone like Smith.