Neuroethics of Neuromodulation: An Update

Curr Opin Biomed Eng. 2018 Dec:8:45-50. doi: 10.1016/j.cobme.2018.10.003. Epub 2018 Oct 26.

Abstract

This article reviews neuroethics issues that arise with the development, translation, and use of technologies for neuromodulation. Three electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, and PhilPapers) were searched for relevant articles published between 1/1/16 - 6/26/18. We focus on pressing ethical issues related to the use of deep brain stimulation (DBS), adaptive DBS (aDBS), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), and associated technologies. The neuroethics issues we address include privacy, continued access to devices, device removal, do-it-yourself neurostimulation, neuroenhancement, media coverage, changes in personal identity and agency, informed consent, and neuromodulation in minors. This review should be of assistance to a variety of stakeholders, including neurotechnology developers, as they make important decisions that will drive these neurotechnologies.

Keywords: DBS; Enhancement; Ethics; Neuroscience; Neurotechnology; Registry.