Researchers use brain MRI scans to literally “read” minds

Yukiyasu Kamitani of ATR Computational Neuroscience Laboratories in Kyoto, Japan, and Frank Tong of Princeton University demonstrated the ability to correctly identify images viewed by volunteers using MRI scans of brain.

The scientists wrote a computer program that recognized the patterns and found that they could successfully predict what images subjects saw. What is more, when a volunteer was shown two sets of stripes simultaneously–but told to pay attention to just one–the team could tell which set the subject was concentrating on.

They also found that images, which were shown for such a short period that conscious mind couldn’t remember them, were also visible using MRI scans of the brain.

In the second experiment, John-Dylan Haynes and Geraint Rees of University College London showed volunteers two images in quick succession, with the first flashing so quickly that the subjects couldn’t clearly identify it. But by analyzing their brain activity, the scientists successfully identified which image had been shown, even when the subjects themselves didn’t remember seeing it. Together, the results elucidate how the brain reacts to stimuli, even when they are “invisible.”

Imagine how useful this will be for solving crimes. Also imagine how it can be misused for your privacy invasion. Now even our minds are not safe.

Another interesting side-effect of this study is that it somewhat gives credence to the subject of subliminal messaging.
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