I’ve just heard that the University of California has had some success in developing software which can read people’s thoughts. The motivation behind this is very commendable. It will help people without the power of speech to communicate. What a wonderful breakthrough.
And yet. I wonder how such a power might be mis-used. Police forces will be able to read the thoughts of suspects. That may be all right if the mind being read is innocent. But few people are entirely innocent. Someone may ‘pass the test’ of this investigation but what if some over zealous policem man discovers dirty secrets for which the person was not arrested.
Governments will be able to read the thoughts of dissidents and opposition politicians. Religious bigots will be able to read the thoughts of believers and non-believers, stoking the flames in their own minds as they do.
Well done University of California. I think, however, that this is one Pandora’s Box which should be fastened tight for ever.
