Esquire is running a great article about Erik Ramsey and his quest to speak with the assistance of a brain-computer interface. As the result of a brain-stem stroke following a car accident, Erik has locked-in syndrome and is capable of making only subtle eye movements. Researchers placed a small implant in the region of Erik’s cortex responsible for controlling speech. A computer analyzes the signals picked up by the implant and translates them into sound. After much practice, Erik can now produce most vowel sounds. The researchers guess that Erik might be able to speak in short, complete sentences within five years.
The reporter makes a good observation: these newfangled implants are only the latest iteration in the millennia-long history of brain-technology interfaces. I like this quote from the article:
For as long as we’ve been humans, we’ve been intermingling our minds with technology. In fact, it’s one of the most essentially human things we do. What are pen and paper if not cognitive prostheses? What was the invention of algebra if not a “mindware upgrade?” And what are books if not external repositories for the contents of our brains?
How I get these words onto the screen is not important. Whether I’m using my fingers, my head, or my neurons, those are only instruments of conveyance. The message remains the same.
Then again, imagine how long-winded these blog entries would become if I could write at the speed of thought. A stiff neck does enforce a certain sense of economy on my words, which is something we can all be grateful for.
