The Speculative Neuroscience of the Future Human Brain

Abstract

Abstract:The hallmark of our species is our ability to hybridize symbolic thinking with behavioral output. We began with the symmetrical hand axe around 1.7 mya and have progressed, slowly at first, then with greater rapidity, to producing increasingly more complex hybridized products. We now live in the age where our drive to hybridize has pushed us to the brink of a neuroscientific revolution, where for the first time we are in a position to willfully alter the brain and hence, our behavior and evolution. Nootropics, transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), deep brain stimulation (DBS) and invasive brain mind interface (BMI) technology are allowing humans to treat previously inaccessible diseases as well as open up potential vistas for cognitive enhancement. In the future, the possibility exists for humans to hybridize with BMIs and mobile architectures. The notion of self is becoming increasingly extended. All of this to say: are we in control of our brains, or are they in control of us?

“Messing with the mind”: evolutionary challenges to human brain augmentation

“…A nootropic agent is a substance that may alter, nourish or augment cognitive performance, predominantly through the stimulation or inhibition of certain neurotransmitters (Nishizaki et al, 1999 ). These agents may occur in nature or be synthetically derived (Dielenberg, 2013 ). These substances have been proven to increase concentration, harness memory potential and expedite cognitive functioning (Turner et al, 2003 , 2004 ).…”

Brain augmentation and neuroscience technologies: current applications, challenges, ethics and future prospects

“…Cosmetic neurology is another approach that uses brain enhancement with the help of chemicals like nootropic drugs (Nishizaki et al, 1999;Dees, 2004). Nootropics can be natural or synthetic that improves concentration, memory, and cognitive function by stimulating and targeting neurochemistry (Turner et al, 2003;Dielenberg, 2013). Pharmaceuticals such as amphetamine, methylphenidate, or modafinil, as well as antidementia medications such as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and memantine, are at the center of public debate about cognitive enhancement.…”