Prosthetic memory system successful in humans
“This is the first time scientists have been able to identify a patient’s own brain cell code or pattern for memory and, in essence, ‘write in’ that code to make existing memory work better, an important first step in potentially restoring memory loss”
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“We showed that we could tap into a patient’s own memory content, reinforce it and feed it back to the patient,” Hampson said. “Even when a person’s memory is impaired, it is possible to identify the neural firing patterns that indicate correct memory formation and separate them from the patterns that are incorrect. We can then feed in the correct patterns to assist the patient’s brain in accurately forming new memories, not as a replacement for innate memory function, but as a boost to it.”
The more I reflect on this achievement, the more it impresses me. The implications are immense, especially in combination with other brain-interface functionality possibilities.
Right now: Other people are naturally evolved to hack into my unconscious and influence me. But I have pretty well matched evolved defenses against maladaptive manipulation, and nonconsciously controlled circuitry that renders me more or less susceptible to adaptive manipulation. My nonconscious is good at looking out for my interests, at least (actually JUST) in ways that make me a good gene replicator. But also right now, minimally foreshadowing what is coming: what is my computer security software really doing. What is happening with my social media data? How am I being manipulated in powerful novel ways that my evolved… Read more »
For enhanced version of above on my own site, see:
http://evolutionary-psychology-and-spirituality.com/2018/03/31/genetic-editing-neuroprostheses-and-the-very-high-risk-of-becoming-zombies/