Task 5: Predicting and Minimizing Potential Unethical Abuses of Brain Mapping

Nowadays, scientists have had a significant breakthrough in mapping the brain with computer. In another words, we are able to read one’s mind if this technology is fully developed. With this new technology, blindness is believed to be overcome and many mental disorders might be cured.

Although brain mapping seems like bringing us many benefits, we must aware of any potential unethical abuses of this new technology. As a researcher of brain mapping, I have to predict unethical abuses of this new technology. Firstly, to predict any unethical abuses, knowing the subject is extremely important. By knowing the subject, we can predict the motive and the suspect. Thus, we can avoid these abuses thoroughly. For example, if the subject is a celebrity, the motive may be to reveal this celebrity’s private life and the suspect could be paparazzi or supporters of the celebrity. Secondly, I will conduct a survey regarding this brain mapping issue through a reliable survey company and my target is the public. With the result of this survey, I can predict what unethical abuses might happen and the public’s reaction.

In order to minimize potential unethical abuses, a strict law must be enacted. The legislator should make a clear clarification regarding the subject, the motive of using this technology, and the punishment for the misuser. With the enforcement of this law, abuses of the brain mapping technology are believed to be reduced. Another way to minimize the abuses is to set a monitoring unit which monitors the usage of this technology. Companies or corporations that need to access this technology has to get permission from the monitoring unit. This monitoring unit must be well-trained so that they won’t accept bribes or violate the laws in order to minimize the potential abuses.

In conclusion, brain mapping may bring us hope but brain mapping may also bring us disaster. Serious consideration should be taken whether this technology should be used or not. Government and society should play their role and cooperate with each other when brain mapping technology is concerned.