Neuralink, the brain-computer interface company founded by Elon Musk, has been gaining attention for its ambitious goals of merging humans and machines. It claims to offer solutions for neurological disorders, cognitive enhancement, and even telepathic communication. However, beneath the surface lies a disturbing reality: Neuralink’s experiments on monkeys have resulted in suffering, brain damage, infections, paralysis, and euthanasia.
Behind Closed Doors
An investigation by Wired recently unveiled the dark side of Neuralink’s work. The company has been conducting tests using brain implants on rhesus macaques at the California National Primate Research Center (CNPRC) at UC Davis. Veterinary records obtained by Wired reveal the grim details of the monkeys’ experiences after receiving these implants.
A Grim Toll
The records show that as many as a dozen monkeys either died or were euthanized due to complications related to the brain implants. These complications included brain swelling, partial paralysis, device failure, and infections associated with the implants.
Heart-Wrenching Cases
Among the heartbreaking incidents, one stands out – the case of Animal 20. During surgery in December 2019, an internal part of the brain implant broke off, leading to self-inflicted injuries as the monkey scratched and pulled at the implant. The wound became infected, but its location made removal impossible, leading to euthanasia in January 2020.
Another Tragic Tale: Animal 15
Animal 15, a female monkey, received a brain implant in February 2019. Soon after, she exhibited troubling behaviors, pressing her head against the ground, picking at her wound until it bled, and losing coordination. She displayed signs of stress and fear when personnel entered her room. A CT scan later revealed brain bleeding around the implant site, leading to euthanasia in March 2019.
A Pattern Emerges
These are just two examples of the distressing outcomes Neuralink’s experiments had on monkeys. Contrary to Musk’s claims that these monkeys were in terminal conditions, records indicate they were young and healthy before the surgeries.
Neuralink’s Response
In response to these allegations, Neuralink published a blog post acknowledging the euthanasia of eight monkeys out of 23 but denying any abuse or neglect. The company stated its commitment to ethical treatment of animals and defended the necessity of animal research before human trials.
Unconvinced Critics
Critics and animal rights groups remain skeptical, opposing any form of animal experimentation. They argue that Neuralink’s devices not only raise ethical concerns but also pose potential risks and uncertainties when applied to humans.
Facing the Future
The controversy surrounding Neuralink’s experiments on monkeys brings to light the company’s technology and its implications for humanity’s future. While some view Neuralink as a groundbreaking innovation with potential for human-machine collaboration, others see it as an intrusion into the realms of life and consciousness. As Neuralink approaches human trials, it must confront these questions and challenges head-on.
Sources:
- Wired article: Elon Musk’s PCRM Accuses Neuralink of Monkey Deaths
- Neuralink blog post: Our Commitment to Animal Welfare
- Reuters article: Musk’s Neuralink faces federal probe over animal tests
- The Verge article: Elon Musk’s brain implant startup Neuralink says it euthanized eight monkeys
- The Guardian article: Neuralink animal testing under investigation after Elon Musk firm accused of cruelty
