清华教授高小榕：大脑的未来，或许没有那么科幻

Core Viewpoint - The brain-computer interface (BCI) technology is advancing rapidly, with companies like Neuralink and Synchron making significant strides in clinical trials, aiming to restore lost functions in patients with paralysis or neurological diseases. However, there is a growing divide between the optimistic visions promoted by tech leaders and the ethical considerations surrounding the technology's potential applications [1][2][3]. Group 1: Current Developments in BCI Technology - Neuralink has completed craniotomy implants in a small number of patients, focusing on restoring motor and speech functions, with plans to conduct speech cortex experiments by Q4 2025 [1]. - Synchron has validated the safety and partial recovery of daily functions for paralyzed patients through minimally invasive vascular implants [1]. - The technology is being explored for various applications, including movement compensation, speech recovery, and potential treatments for conditions like schizophrenia and autism [8][9]. Group 2: Ethical Considerations and Limitations - The concept of "superhuman" capabilities through BCI, such as consciousness uploading, is deemed ethically unacceptable and currently unrealistic [2][3][7]. - The focus of BCI technology is on repair and assistance rather than enhancement, with a clear distinction between restoring normal function and exceeding natural human abilities [3][4]. - The potential for BCI to facilitate human-machine collaboration is emphasized, particularly in bridging communication gaps between human and artificial intelligences [4]. Group 3: Future Prospects and Challenges - The timeline for achieving mature BCI technology has been revised to approximately 15 to 20 years, although significant limitations remain, such as the lifespan of implanted devices [17][18]. - The advancement of AI is expected to play a crucial role in overcoming current challenges in data processing and signal interpretation within BCI systems [10]. - There is a notable difference in research focus between the US and China, with China leading in non-invasive and semi-invasive methods, while the US excels in invasive techniques [16].