[]iInitially the tech will be strictly for medical uses, of course. But if it ever becomes truly safe and convenient to use, it isn't hard to imagine people choosing voluntarily to have a BrainGate interface implanted into their heads simply for convenience. It would confer abilities roughly equivalent to telepathy and clairvoyance right off, particularly if combined with some kind of feedback mechanism - video specs, perhaps, or an equivalent of BrainGate attached to the optic nerve instead. In a sufficiently wired and automated world, it would also be effectively telekinetic: unlocking doors, turning lights or machines on and off, handling computers etc.[/i]

... and manipulating Big Brother ???
I don't believe!

I have worked with severely disabled children all my life and the potential of this technology is almost too exciting for words.

Great idea

I think I would have a problem with implanting this is otherwise "normal" functioning people. Sounds too much like "1984," "Brave New World," or "Fahrenheit 451" to me. Devices like this for an average person, reminds me of the people portrayed in "Wall-e", if life becomes too convenient--we'll end up like the people in "Wall-e." Just like the clipmark from yesterday (In Defense of Asskicking), about trying, failing and learning from our failures.