Annex B – Technology review
Tele-existence
Tele-existence is a natural progression from augmented reality and virtual reality and
gives the user a real time experience of being at another location, with the ability to
perform tasks and interact with this remote environment. Tele-existence gives the user
the capability to manipulate robots from a distance using a headset and haptic gloves
(movements of these gloves controls the movement of the remote device). Telemedicine
is paving the way in this field, allowing doctors to diagnose and, in some advanced cases,
perform surgical procedures in separate locations to their patients. Defence applications
could enable avatars (remote representations of the user) to be used in circumstances
too dangerous for people, such as bomb disposal, clearance diving or even activities in
space: the activity occurs in the physical environment, but the user stays out of harm ́s
way.Tele-existence and virtual reality may further enhance social communication over extended
distances and real time artificial intelligence-based translation systems could overcome
language and cultural barriers. The Internet of Things and big data is likely to be used
to facilitate group communication, for example, by displaying, interpreting and illustrating
social networks.Ethical behaviour
Controversially, it may be possible (and desirable) to morally enhance personnel to prevent
malicious activity.^96 Such a process is likely to include methods that enhance moral
reflection, self-control and empathy for others. It is a wildcard since while most people
may find improved memory or motivation appealing, they typically believe their morals are
already fit for purpose.^97 In fact many believe that ‘enhancing’ their morals will leave them
worse off.^98 Artificial intelligence could also be used to enhance ethical decision-making,
for example in a military headquarters.^99 Widespread uptake of technology to deliver
moral enhancement will depend as much on social acceptance as the development of the
technology.Potential and issues. Linking minds and coordinating groups is likely to be a far more
effective way of improving cognition, perception and, perhaps, emotions than improving
individual brains. It is plausible that as social neuroscience progresses, we will find
interventions that improve social learning and interpersonal skills. Being able to reopen
the brain to social learning, normally only available in the developing brain, may have
application in therapy, education and adapting to new social circumstances and learning
languages.^10096 Persson, I. and Savulescu, J., (2008), Journal of Applied Philosophy, ‘The perils of cognitive
enhancement and the urgent imperative to enhance the moral character of humanity’.
97 Riis, J., et al., (2008), Journal of Consumer Research, ‘Preferences for enhancement pharmaceuticals:
The reluctance to enhance fundamental traits’.
98 Zohny, H., (2018), Medicine, Health Care, and Philosophy, ‘Moral Enhancement and the Good Life’.
99 Giubilini, A. and Savulescu, J., (2018), Philosophy & Technology, ‘The artificial moral advisor. The “Ideal
Observer” meets artificial intelligence’.
100 Blundon, J. A., et al., (2017), Science, ‘Restoring auditory cortex plasticity in adult mice by restricting
thalamic adenosine signalling’.