Machines in Our Minds: The Past, Present, and Future of Neural Implants

A visual and engaging overview of neural implants, as well as the ethics, technical challenges, and potential pathways for more advanced solutions to reach patients.

Machines in Our Minds offers a unique look at the history and current status of medical neural implants. Ian Halpern—a principal investigator who cofounded a neural implant company and served on the inaugural US presidential BRAIN Initiative review panel—discusses everything from the origins of these implants to the future for many millions of recipients. Topics range from animal and clinical research to the details of the technology, as well as the ethics, risks, and challenges faced by researchers and developers.  

Halpern focuses on the stories behind neural implants that have achieved sustained commercialization, the technical and business challenges of reaching patients, and the future of advanced neural implants. Bridging the many disciplines that are part of neural implant development and commercialization, the book provides developers with useful details, patients with a more well-rounded understanding, and technology enthusiasts with accessible descriptions to counterbalance recently accelerating hyperbole.