Lately, I’ve been pondering the future of surgical enhancement of the mind, from the viewpoint of an expert in neurosurgery, Katrina Firlik. In fact just read her incredible book, Another Day in the Frontal Lobe, a must read for those interested in the business and well being of the brain. Listen to an excerpt at NPR.
Here’s what Firlik sees in the pike for surgical enhancement of the mind, and it’s far more than “just a cognitive tune-up.” In Dr. Firlik’s words … “a select few will undergo implantation of electrical stimulation devices in order to develop a savant-like mind. They will become “savant specialists” in a society that already values super-specialization.”
Yikes, what will a savant movement do to the movement toward using integrated approaches to solve problems with more successful outcomes? Then again, imagine playing a piano to relax on your lunch break, with savant musical skills.
Ok … Firlik, admits to going out on a limb … but you only have to read here amazing background and see here accomplishments to want to go out there with her when it comes to the brain’s destiny. And besides, you can already get a brainlift on Friday and be back at work Monday.
According to Dr. Firlik … “These elite savants will be a boon to the professions and organization that tap into these particular strengths. They will expand the potential for human achievement and productivity beyond what is currently constrained by average human brainpower.”
So what’s holding us back from moving beyond surgical brainlift now available, to savant-like implants that could intensify empathy, solve complex math problems in seconds or master several languages in days? It may ramp up your CV, but it could ruin how you hold down a job.
Not to worry yet though … this brain surgery cannot occur until researchers completely solve the riddle of the savant mind. They are working on it … and some say they are getting close to understanding it’s secrets. Obstacle still exist … since for example, we know that one part of the savant’s brain is revved up at the expense of other parts. Hmmm… this may not be the study to volunteer as a human subject … even when the experts offer you pay to become the bionic version of the Renaissance Mind. Think anybody will sign up?
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