Originally aired on September 21, 2023

Elon Musk’s brain implant startup, Neuralink, is set to begin human trials, sparking both excitement and backlash. The company aims to offer implants to individuals suffering from paralysis, allowing them to control a computer or keyboard using their thoughts. However, the announcement has faced criticism, especially regarding the alleged deaths of monkeys during testing. Musk denies any monkey deaths resulted from the implants, but public records and interviews suggest otherwise.

What is Neuralink’s goal with brain implants?

• Neuralink aims to develop brain implants that can record and transmit brain signals to an app, enabling individuals with paralysis to control devices using their thoughts.
• The technology has the potential to restore full body movement in patients.

What controversy has arisen around Neuralink’s human trials?

• Neuralink faced criticism after allegedly causing the deaths of 15 out of 23 monkeys used in testing.
• Despite Musk’s denial, public records and interviews with former Neuralink employees and researchers suggest that the monkeys experienced suffering and had to be euthanized.

How did Elon Musk respond to the criticism?

• Musk denied that any monkey died due to a Neuralink implant, stating that they chose terminally ill monkeys for early implants to minimize risk.
• However, public records and testimonies from an ex-Neuralink employee and a researcher contradict Musk’s statement.

What potential impact could Neuralink have?

• If successful, Neuralink’s brain implants could revolutionize the treatment of paralysis and offer hope for full body movement restoration.
• The technology could have implications for neuroscientific research and other related fields.

What are the concerns surrounding Neuralink’s human trials?

• The alleged monkey deaths during testing have raised ethical concerns about the welfare and treatment of animals in the research process.
• Critics argue that more transparency and accountability are needed in experimental procedures.

What is the current status of Neuralink’s human trials?

• Neuralink opened recruitment for its first human clinical trial and plans to implant the devices in patients soon.
• The trials aim to assess the safety and effectiveness of the brain implants in paralyzed individuals.