Prospects for Thought Communication
Kevin Warwick and Daniela Cerqui Department of Cybernetics, University of Reading, Whiteknights, Reading, RG6 6AY, UK

Abstract
In this paper we take a look at the realistic future possibility of thought communication. Technical details are presented on experimentation carried out thus far using implant technology and the route ahead involving brain-computer interfaces is described. Of importance in the paper is however the ethical issues raised by such a novel technological development. Discussion is centred on how this relates to previous technological innovations and their early acceptance, e.g. the telephone.

1. Introduction
Technology is now becoming available which is opening up the realistic possibility of thought communication between individuals being achieved in the forthcoming decade, through the use of brain-computer implants. Indeed the first trials along these lines are even now occurring in several research labs [Kennedy et. al., 2000; Warwick et. al., 2004]. New technical methods presently being looked into (e.g. nanotechnology) are only likely to further enhance the results obtained thus far and speed up the rate of progress in this area. Witnessing the dawning of a completely new and revolutionary technical capability for humans raises a multitude of questions in terms of the effects on all aspects of society. It is interesting to consider what we can learn by looking back to relevant new directions when they have occurred in the past. In this paper we make an attempt to indicate the chief areas of interest and have a stab at pointing to pertinent events that, we feel, relate to the situation as of now, and from which we may take heed. It is always extremely difficult, given any new technological discovery or invention, to realistically assess its potential future impact on and in society. Hindsight is a