Neurotechnology

Comprehensive Summary

This paper, presented by Shaw et al., examines the ethical discourse surrounding the usage of neuromodulation techniques for psychiatric conditions. Using the PRISMA scoping review guidelines, 77 references were included in this review. Five main ethical dilemmas were presented in detail: Personal Identity and Authenticity, Autonomy and Informed Consent, Beneficence and Non-Maleficence, Justice, and Privacy and Responsibility. Identity has arisen as a critical topic in neuromodulation, specifically in regards to the invasive nature of techniques such as Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), which involves the surgical implantation of an electrode. According to various interviews and case reports, there have been experiences described regarding a change in one’s sense of self. Autonomy and informed consent are also noted to be at the forefront of ethical discourses as it is interconnected with concerns regarding alterations in cognition, emotion, and personality, which may interfere with a patient’s decision-making process. Beneficence and non-maleficence are vital principles to understand when considering the acceptability of using these neuromodulatory techniques, as they emphasize the maximization of therapeutic benefits and reducing risks, especially while these treatments are in their clinical trial and research phases. Justice is another major ethical concern as questions of accessibility of these therapies arise, especially in regards to socioeconomic and bureaucratic barriers that patients encounter in healthcare. Protecting one’s mental privacy is also an important consideration as technological advancements begin to facilitate neural data connection, wireless communication, and more. Furthermore, responsibility becomes an issue in instances where neuromodulation devices contribute to patients committing harmful acts, whether through their functioning or behavioral changes, leading to instances where accountability becomes open for interpretation.

Outcomes and Implications

This research is significant because it outlines the ethical frameworks needed to guide the clinical development of neuromodulation therapies, which are continuously advancing in the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders. As the use of DBS and other interventions become more widespread, clinicians must address various ethical issues to ensure that treatment remains both effective and ethical. While neuromodulation is extremely promising as a form of therapy for psychiatric conditions, its clinical application must be accompanied by clear ethical safeguards, policies to ensure accessibility, and careful monitoring of cognitive side effects. While the current discourse is primarily theoretical and based on early clinical experiences, the paper emphasizes the importance of considering these issues now to minimize ethical conflicts as neuromodulation becomes a more widely implemented practice.

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© 2025 AIIM. Created by AIIM IT Team