Several technological, scientific, and philosophical pathways are driving this convergence. These paths are not mutually exclusive and often overlap, reflecting the multidisciplinary nature of the challenge.
Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs):
Description: BCIs enable direct communication between the human brain and digital systems, allowing thoughts to control devices or digital systems to augment cognition. Companies like Neuralink, Synchron, and Blackrock Neurotech are developing implantable devices to read and stimulate brain activity.
Progress:
Neuralink’s 2024 trials demonstrated basic control of a computer cursor via brain signals in human subjects, with plans for bidirectional communication (e.g., sensory feedback).
Non-invasive BCIs, like those from Emotiv or Meta’s wrist-based neural interfaces, are advancing but offer lower resolution.