5th Entry

Our group round table discussion was on “Should institution or governments regulate the use of brain computational modeling technologies? Why or Why not?” We divided our group into two; one supports the rules and regulations while the other says we should let the technologies develop without regulations.

Firstly, Weng Yi as the moderator opened the discussion by introducing the topic briefly and the panelists. Next, I started the discussion to support government regulations. I emphasized on health factor as the main reason for regulations. In order for others to understand, I explained some of the common scanning techniques such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and computer tomography (CT) scanner. Because of the possible side effects during and after the scanning process, hence, regulations must be implemented to prevent abusing the technique.

Next, Li Xu agreed with me and added some ethical issues involved. The main issues were about consent and privacy. For instance, brain modeling could be forcefully used on criminals to read their minds for information related to the crime. Although, they are criminal, it still violates human rights. Jiao Jiao further supported this issue. She emphasized on privacy, as brain computational modeling is literally mind reading. For example, one could know your bank account password by this technology. Hence, without guidelines, this brain modeling could be abused. Li Xu, then, added the possibility of inaccurate data, and how scanned results should be handle. As a result, Li Xu and Jiao Jiao believed that computational modeling should be regulated.

On the other hand, Eric opposed regulations by stating that all technology should freedom to develop. He believed that computational modeling is just in infant stage. We should let scientists develop it till mature state. By then, government might still be able to regulate. To support his point, he suggested the usage of mind-reading device as small spectacles that are capable of predicting danger or exchange thoughts to overcome language barrier. However, it still related to privacy issue.

Lastly, Song Yan agreed with Eric about the immature state of the technology, he against rules and regulations imposed by government. He doubted that the rules and regulations could ensure the confidential of the scanning data. On the other hand, regulations might only limit brain computational modeling’s development.

Finally, Weng Yi summarized the whole discussion. It was such an interesting discussion. However, it ended with an open conclusion. This was indeed a long termed debatable issue, which can be resolved in a near future. At least, we did agreed one thing that brain modeling should some how be regulated.