The Blade Runner Generation
From: Times (UK) - 07/22/2007
By: Charlotte Hunt-Grubbe

A convergence of biomechanics, computer science, neuroscience, mathematics,
nanotechnology, materials science, tissue engineering, and robotics is
expected to yield technologies that will enhance our bodies far beyond more
efficient and natural prosthetics for the disabled. For instance, North
Carolina pain-relief surgeon Dr. Stuart Meloy discovered quite by accident
that orgasms could be triggered by stimulating nerves via electrodes placed
parallel to the spine. Other notable innovations include new prosthetic legs
that offer more natural movement; "bionic" limbs that operate through the
relocation of nerve endings; cochlear implants that directly interface with
nerves in the brain to restore hearing; and deep brain stimulation (DBS)
implants that blot out defective neural signals that inhibit and distort
normal bodily functions by continually sending electrical current into
specific regions of the brain. A next-generation DBS device is under
development that promises to send current into the brain only when needed.
Also making waves is the BrainGate, a brain-machine interface that allows
users to control a computer by thought via a microchip implanted in the motor
cortex. Even more ambitious goals include direct brain-to-brain transmission
of thoughts and impulses, Internet-linked implants, and the augmentation of
our senses through technology within the body. There are many ethical
concerns revolving around smart robotic prostheses, and Georgia Institute of
Technology professor Henrik Christensen says the solution is to split
accountability between the user and the technology producer. A similar issue
surrounds the eligibility of athletes with prosthetics in sporting events,
based on concerns that they may have an unfair advantage. 

Read the entire article at:
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/health/article2079637.ece

Links:
Doctor Discovers the 'Orgasmatron'
http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Living/story?id=235788&page=1
http://plancksconstant.org/blog1/2006/05/orgasmatron.html

T. Stuart Meloy
http://www.aipmnc.com/staff.asp

BrainGate
http://www.cyberkineticsinc.com/content/medicalproducts/braingate.jsp

Henrik Christensen
http://www-static.cc.gatech.edu/~hic/Welcome.html
http://www.nada.kth.se/%7Ehic/
http://www.robothalloffame.org/jury_christensen.html