Sooner or later, a person will connect his brain to the Internet and will control the devices around him with his thoughts. A universal environment will appear in which people can “communicate” through neural connections – neuronet.
What is a neuronet
Neuronet is the next stage in the development of the Internet and information technology. Now we live at the stage of Web 3.0, where the Internet has ceased to be a network only inside computers and is involved in the external environment: to communicate with customers you do not need to come to the office, you can buy clothes online, and the one who catches a taxi on the side of the road looks just weird.
Neuronet is Web 4.0, that is, the stage at which Internet technologies are not embedded in the outside world, but are part of it. He will enhance mental abilities in the same way as exoskeletons increase physical.
In a simple explanation, a neuronet is that same sci-fi future: the coffee maker turns on in the morning from the thought that you need to cheer up, and the smartphone sends an message to your girlfriend when you think about it.
Neuronet history
Douglas Engelbart is one of the first researchers on the human-machine interface and inventor of the computer mouse.
The idea that cybernetics, robots, and computers should enhance human intelligence appeared in the middle of the 20th century. One of the first ideologists Douglas Engelbart – the creator of a computer mouse. He introduced the concept of “exocortex” – an external system that helps a person process information. In 1973, the concept was concretized before the definition of “neurocomputer interface” – the interaction of the type “brain-computer”.
Neuronet is also the idea of creating a single global brain. In the 1930s, she appeared in science fiction (The World Brain by G. Wells) and in philosophy.
The French philosopher Eduard Leroy argued that all consciousnesses will come together, and the Soviet and American physicist Valentin Turchin – that this is one of the options for the immortality of mankind.
Why do you need a neuronet
Neuronet will simplify interactions in all areas of life: education, medicine, entertainment, politics, charity. People will be easier to understand each other and spend less time transmitting information..
The task of the neuronet is to make everyone a genius. And to do this not through its private development, but through the combination of skills of different people.
This can be described through a metaphor. If three people stand on opposite sides of the elephant, and the fourth with his eyes closed touches his trunk, then everyone will see a different picture. To get a complete picture, they need to approach each other and share their thoughts. It’s a long time.
Neuronet will unite these people through virtual agents (computers, chips, programs) and allow you to instantly exchange experience.
The real world is much more complicated than an elephant, but neurotechnical communication is a tool that will help to learn it collectively.
How does a neuronet work
During the development of such a network, humanity will go through these stages:
- First, data will be transmitted from the body or brain of a person to a virtual agent: a computer, system, neural network, program, or chip. Agents will analyze physiological and mental reactions, speech, movements, habits. Voice assistants “Alice” or Siri are also agents. They already “strengthen” a person and help him solve problems.
- Then people will interact through agents with each other.. They will negotiate and exchange information faster, learn more. In order to transmit information along the chain “brain-computer-brain”, you need input interfaces (capture data in the brain) and output interfaces (transfer data to another brain). For this, electronic implants must be implanted into the body, and in the future, the invisible “smart dust” may become the main conductor.
- After they will begin to unite in groups where you can “discuss” a common topic: product, idea, invention, technology, conflict, creative project. Here virtual agents support thinking, store results, pool the resources of each.
- Next, the groups will begin to interact with each other: instantly transfer experience from one community to another. An individual does not interact with members of others or even his group personally, but has access to a knowledge base. He becomes a collective genius, master, specialist.
As a result, a space of common mind will appear in which traditional “slow” communication tools (thoughts, gestures, words) are not needed.
Stages of neuronet development: how it will change life
The first stage (2015 – 2025)
The preliminary stage of neuronet is biometrics. We are on it now: we study biometric data, read it, store or process it, wear trackers, scan and recognize movements, gestures, faces. This is the preparation of the “iron” component of the neuronet.
According to Nuronet roadmap from the NTI project (National Technology Initiative), the biometrict phase will end around 2020-2022. After it, the creation of information systems will begin that process not only biometric data, but also neuroinformation (thoughts, emotions, sensations).
While there are no ready-made projects for neuroinformation exchange – we are still learning how to transmit signals from the brain to the brain and to the computer.
The second stage (2025 – 2035)
The first successful working systems in this area are expected in 2025-2035. Then the neural interfaces penetrate the human body and become invisible. Augmented reality systems will transmit sounds, smells, tactile sensations, and not just a picture.
Scientists will be able to duplicate many body systems (immune, nervous, circulatory) and recreate mental states (automatic state stimulants). You can quickly relax, or vice versa enter yourself in a state of increased concentration.
People will quickly exchange emotions and gain knowledge. You can communicate with foreigners without knowing the language – the chips will transmit the translation directly to the brain.
There will be a market for the sale of devices, accessories and programs for neuronet. The low cost of the systems will transfer it to everyday life. This will become the same standard as buying a smartphone or registering on a social network..
The third stage (2035 – 2045)
After 2035-2045, the time will come for a fully functional neuronet. In order not to experience stress from work, a person can artificially construct the necessary consciousness – combine different mental sensations into one. For example, exacerbate memory, increase the activity of the nervous system and at the same time feel indifference and calm.
From such modeling of the brain, people will move on to modeling entire collectives, which will be united by the same thinking and psyche. They will join their efforts and make one big “brain” (social consciousness). The first neural communities and precedents between them will appear.
In neurocollectives they will transfer experience to each other – physical, emotional or even combat experience can be obtained artificially.
Threats and Risks
The main threat that opponents of the neuronet are talking about is the introduction of technical devices into the human body – “chipping”. This is necessary for exchanging data with other people, but many see this as the desire of the government to organize total surveillance and control of the people.
The fear of state control is worthy of separate discussion. But do not forget that most of us already have a long digital footprint on the net and rarely thinks about its availability. We do it ourselves through smartphones, smart devices and our online copies: emails, accounts on social networks or websites.
Marketers know which store you go to and what articles you read, and government systems – which route you go to work and where you spend the weekend. It sounds scary, but in practice it’s not so terrible: we are ready to sacrifice privacy in favor of comfort.
Other threats of neuronet:
- The threat of external control of people, including intruders. Lack of privacy.
- Stratification of society due to the inaccessibility of technology for some groups. The elite will become superhumans, and the lower classes of biorobots that serve them.
- Neurohacking – hacking a network to spread harmful information, viruses.
Each of these questions is extensive, but it is worth remembering that neuronet more empowers a person than limits.
The development of the entire network will not happen in one day – as it appears, we will face difficulties and solve security problems. Moreover, such a system opens up the possibility of collective counteraction to threats.
Who makes a neuronet?
It cannot be said exactly when humanity began to develop this idea. Technology by itself is pushing us towards a neuronet:
- Businesses want manufacturing to automatically adapt to market needs.
- People – so that trackers tell you how much to drink or walk.
- Market – for big data to tell what kind of advertising and at what time will be more effective near the Novokosino metro station.
Solutions to satisfy all these desires are developed every day. They create a cybernetic world that will depend on thoughts, not button clicks.
Neuronet in Russia and the world
State projects for the development of the neurotechnological environment are working in America, Europe, Asia and Russia. Governments want technological advantages over each other.
- It works in Russia industry union “Neuronet”, supported by the presidium of the Presidential Council.
- In the United States, such projects are funded by DARPA (Department of Defense Advanced Research Projects).
- The EU is involved in the Human Brain Project and the BNCI Horizon 2020.
- In Asia, the largest projects are China (China Brain Project) and Japan (Brain / MINDS Project).
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Is Neuronet really the perfect cyberspace or does it raise concerns about control over individuals?
While Neuronet offers a vast and immersive cyberspace experience, it also raises significant concerns about control over individuals. On one hand, Neuronet’s seamless integration of technology allows for unparalleled opportunities in communication, learning, and entertainment. Its sophisticated algorithms enhance efficiency and convenience in various aspects of life. However, the centralized nature of Neuronet raises concerns about privacy invasion and manipulation of personal data. The potential for a single entity to hold immense power and influence over individuals is unsettling. Moreover, as Neuronet becomes more ingrained into our lives, the risk of addiction and dependence on this technology grows. While Neuronet offers great potential, the need to address these concerns surrounding control over individuals is crucial for a truly ideal cyberspace.
Neuronet may appear as the perfect cyberspace due to its vast capabilities and interconnectedness, offering convenience, information, and entertainment. However, it does raise concerns about control over individuals. The extensive data collection and analysis by Neuronet can lead to invasive surveillance and manipulation. There is a potential risk of losing privacy, autonomy, and personal freedom. As our reliance on Neuronet increases, it becomes crucial to address these concerns and ensure that appropriate safeguards are in place to protect individuals’ rights and prevent abuse of power.