Neuroscience and National Security (Jonathan Moreno)

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Key takeaways from the transcript of Jonathan Moreno’s talk on “Neuroscience and National Security”:

  1. Background and Introduction: Moreno discusses his background working on a presidential advisory committee under President Clinton in the mid-90s, focusing on human radiation experiments. This experience led him to explore the intersection of bioethics, neuroscience, and national security.
  2. Work on National Security Related Issues: Moreno highlights the lack of attention to bioethical considerations in national security-related issues prior to his work. He mentions his involvement in a project that traversed the history of ionizing radiation experiments and federal policy, identifying case studies and making recommendations.
  3. Publication and Research: Moreno authored books on the history and ethics of brain and behavioral science in the context of national security, exploring how neuroscience and neurotechnologies impact national security conversations. He also discusses the historical context of LSD experiments and their potential implications for national security.
  4. Brainwashing and Behavioral Science: Moreno touches on the concept of brainwashing, referencing historical events and literature like “The Manchurian Candidate.” He discusses the use of techniques such as sleep deprivation and rewards to manipulate individuals’ behavior.
  5. Hallucinogens and National Security: Moreno discusses the history of LSD experiments, including government-funded research like MKULTRA. He mentions the potential use of hallucinogens in warfare, highlighting experiments on British soldiers and the involvement of figures like Frank Olson.
  6. Behavioral Studies and Intelligence Tools: Moreno explores behavioral studies aimed at understanding human capabilities like remote viewing, which could serve as intelligence tools. He discusses the implications of such abilities for national security and mentions projects like the First Earth Battalion.
  7. Neurotechnologies and National Security: Moreno discusses advancements in neurotechnologies, including imaging and brain stimulation techniques like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). He explores their potential applications in national security, such as enhancing soldiers’ alertness or mitigating fatigue.
  8. Ethical Considerations: Throughout the talk, Moreno raises ethical questions surrounding the use of neurotechnologies in national security, including the use of drugs like oxytocin to influence behavior and the ethical implications of enhanced interrogation techniques.
  9. Dual-Use Technologies: Moreno emphasizes the dual-use nature of many neurotechnologies, which can have both civilian and military applications. He discusses the collaboration between academia and the national security sector in developing such technologies.
  10. Future Implications and Ethical Dilemmas: Moreno concludes by highlighting the tension between the desire to push technological advancements in national security and the ethical considerations surrounding their use. He emphasizes the need for further research and discussion on these topics.

Overall, Moreno’s talk provides insights into the complex interplay between neuroscience, bioethics, and national security, raising important ethical questions and considerations in the use of neurotechnologies for military purposes.