Comments on: Win trip to Tokyo, meet Nobel Prize winner

By: Peter

Peter — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 11:09:50 +0000

As detailed in the BBC program ‘Visions of the Future’ with Michio Kaku, we now have the technology for someone to subtly and potently alter their mood at the touch of a dial. The technique involves the implantation of an interface into the human brain, as such it has so far been used for severely clinically depressed people, who after the surgery and some adjustments are perfectly content. Assumedly the technology could also be used to make discontent factory workers adore their jobs.

The dominion we hold over the human mind can only expand, and only accelerate in doing so.

By: Leon

Leon — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 12:22:34 +0000

I think it sounds like a fascinating topic. Beyond mind control - an interesting area in itself - the subject is pretty open.

By: Stephen Lloyd

Stephen Lloyd — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 05:38:51 +0000

By mind control I think they mean the ubiquitous use of highly researched advertising.

Things like advertising aimed at children, who are more or less defenceless against it which is designed to get them to nag their parents, etc. This stuff is also used by the government though it is far less effective.

By: Andrew Norton

Andrew Norton — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 02:12:50 +0000

I don’t know the history that well, but I presume Hayek was influenced by the 1950s debate about brainwashing, particularly in the context of the Korean war.

By: Jason Soon

Jason Soon — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 01:51:20 +0000

Yes I agree, that quote sounds a bit loopy taken out of context.

By: Andrew Norton

Andrew Norton — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 23:50:04 +0000

David - I think the problem with the quote is the reference to ‘mind control”. Apart from drugs designed for mental health use I don’t think this has happened, and those drugs have largely had positive consequences in giving individuals control over their own lives. Nor does it seem even remotely likely that direct ‘mind control’ will occur. However, governments have used technology in attempts to improve their propaganda and surveillance techniques, and there I think the more interesting issues lie.

By: David

David — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 23:30:31 +0000

I like Hayek but it’s an odd essay topic. Sounds a bit Scientology to me.