Overview
The paper argues neurowarfare is not a half-century away but could arrive much sooner given the enormous breakthroughs in neuroscience.
Timeline Assessment
- Jonathan Moreno suggested neurowarfare might be 50 years away
- The paper counters this, arguing it could arrive 'a lot sooner'
- Current neuro S/T advances are already enabling capabilities that were previously science fiction
Existing Capabilities
Some primitive versions of neuroweapons may already exist:
- Biochemical agents (neurotoxins like Project Flute)
- Directed energy weapons (microwave, laser systems)
- Information/subliminal influence methods
- Enhanced PSYOPS and information warfare
International Context
Both Russia and China have researched unorthodox types of weapons attacking the human mind and nervous system in the past. Recent studies suggest ongoing interest in neuro S/T for military applications.
neurotechnologies-degradation-market — Underground cognitive weapons market targeting mental performance degradation
neuroweapons-definition-and-classification — Comprehensive definition of neuroweapons as tools to influence, direct, or neutralize human thought and behavior