Is There Really a Thinking Cap?

[CuttingEdge100]

Is There Really a Thinking Cap?

Sounds like a great idea on paper, but it does open up a number of ethical issues. This technically does verge on mind-control -- It actually alters the way the brain works as to alter the way a person thinks.

What are your opinions?

 

[Jadzia]

I've heard of a similar technique before of using externally applied magnetic fields to temporarily deactivate one part of the brain so that another part takes its place. The use was to enhance memory and fast counting skills, which can temporarily give a person the skills of a savant (Rainman), which can be quite impressive.

This thinking cap seems to be promoting fluid thinking over concrete thinking, which is good for problem solving and inventiveness.

There are only ethical issues if the technique is forced upon people, which is unlikely.

 

[Admiral Buzzkill]

http://mnfx.com/mnfxwordpress/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/IdeaHelmet.jpg

 

[Gepard]

http://mnfx.com/mnfxwordpress/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/IdeaHelmet.jpg

Interesting resemblance to the Daft Punk helmet #1. Wonder if it was designed by the same guy or if they, ah, "borrowed" some inspiration.

 

[Robert Maxwell]

I'd be less concerned about it being used as a mind-control tool (it's far too blunt for that) and more worried about what long-term effects it might have on your brain. It's conceivable that you could become psychologically or even physically addicted to such a device. Amping up the power of the right side of your brain doesn't sound too far off from what a lot of drugs do. Occasional use would probably be fine but I'd hesitate to make regular use of it without further study.

 

[Timby]

I'd be less concerned about it being used as a mind-control tool (it's far too blunt for that) and more worried about what long-term effects it might have on your brain. It's conceivable that you could become psychologically or even physically addicted to such a device. Amping up the power of the right side of your brain doesn't sound too far off from what a lot of drugs do. Occasional use would probably be fine but I'd hesitate to make regular use of it without further study.

Yeah, the use of such a device seems like a conduit to endorphin and dopamine highs. It's kind of troubling.

 

[CuttingEdge100]

Robert Maxwell

I'd be less concerned about it being used as a mind-control tool (it's far too blunt for that)

In this case yes, however the technology could always be refined or "sharpened" metaphorically speaking.

more worried about what long-term effects it might have on your brain.

That's a completely valid concern

It's conceivable that you could become psychologically or even physically addicted to such a device.

True