B2- Upper Intermediate
Nowadays, the unstoppable advancements of neuroscience and neurotechnology have never been more evident. We will soon be able to utilize devices that can decode information in our brains, boost our senses, or modify our memories. When the time comes, it will make ethical boundaries and neurorights much more crucial in protecting our mental privacy.
Read the article to know more about neurorights. Be ready to answer the questions that follow.
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “to blur the border between two things” mean? “Massive reliance on virtual communication technologies such as VR can blur the border between desire and reality and contribute to isolating individuals even more.” Use this phrase in a sentence and give a synonym or similar expression.
- What does “when the bonds of solidarity break” mean? “And when the bonds of solidarity break, societies can easily collapse and are more susceptible to attacks.” Use this idiom in a sentence and give a synonym or similar expression.
- What does “sense of agency” mean? “Neurorights are based on fundamental human rights, but must go beyond them to effectively protect the right to have a personality, the right to have a private sphere, to have a sense of agency, among other topics.” Use this phrase in a sentence and give a synonym or similar expression.
Discussion Questions:
- Do we need legislation to protect our brains? Explain your insights.
- Why are neurorights needed and what makes them so important?
- What are the gaps in existing legislation of human rights? Can the EU’s privacy framework, including the EU AI act, accommodate neurorights?
- How can we achieve responsible innovation in neurotechnology?
- How could new neurotechnologies governance alleviate risks of external manipulation, but also bring new opportunities such as mental empowerment?