From Mary Shelley to Netflix: a Pan-European perspective on public communication of neuroscience and neurotechnology

TL;DR

This paper explores how neuroscience and neurotechnology are communicated to the public in Europe through various cultural and media formats.

Contribution

It presents a novel pan-European perspective on public engagement with neuroscience through 10 distinct communication methods.

Findings

Historical works like Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein' reflect public fears about science.

Modern platforms like TED Talks and documentaries are influential in science communication.

Science fiction, despite inaccuracies, sparks ethical debates about neurotechnology.

Abstract

Scientific knowledge of the human brain has captivated the public’s attention and sparked their imagination for centuries. Comprehending the inner workings of the mind and the underlying molecular and physiological aspects of the central nervous system has long been the defining theme of contemporary Western scientific culture. Even as the focus has arguably shifted towards genomics in the early 21st century, the brain continues to hold the spotlight in science communication, perhaps bolstered by the hype surrounding Artificial Intelligence. Neuroscience and neurotechnology, with their connections to culture, identity, economic progress, and health, remain subjects of fascination for people of all ages who seek to understand the present and future implications of research in these fields. In this work, we explore 10 distinct ways of communication dealing with the subject of the brain, the mind, applied neurotechnology, and what makes us, and possibly other things, human. We examine European literature, material culture, and various film formats to gain insights into these captivating subjects. Instances like Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” exemplify the historical fear of science. At the same time, TED Talks and documentaries have emerged as influential platforms for scientific communication. The intersection between art and brain imaging helps visualise abstract concepts. The gamification of thought experiments is an accessible tool for the public to understand complex cognitive phenomena. And, despite a lack of accuracy, science fiction can spark public debates on ethical issues involving the conscience of robots or the privacy of our brain data.

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