In George Orwell’s book 1984 the only crime was thought crime. This was any thought an individual held that opposed the ruling party. With the new age of technology and soon bio implantable devices and the history of the NSA of spying on citizens this should be of paramount concern. What if “big brother” could actually see inside your head? These are not things you say or write on the internet, these are your private thoughts.
How much control do we have over our thoughts from minute to minute
Some would say a great deal others seem to be powerless over their own thoughts, yet do not act on them, still some will act. I think initially they would say they want to prevent these actions. There would be a shooting or worse and people would gladly turn over their thoughts for this promise of safety. I don’t believe they would stop there however, soon they would know that you cheated on your taxes, that you are running an unsanctioned lemonade stand. These are things you have done your secrets. What if you believe the system is corrupt and seek change. Now you are a target even if you have done nothing to mobilize.
Am I going to get a bio implantable
I have long said I would be an early adopter I’d love to have the knowledge of the web inside of my head and access to data and communication like never before. I worry about what will be done with my data though weather it is the government or a corporation it’s a bit scary. I am by no means a revolutionary or tax evader, but I do have some pretty cool ideas that maybe I don’t want to share. For example a low energy desalination method. I should be rewarded for giving that idea to the world. If I had a bio implantable Google could steal it before I could even file the paperwork. I think I will still get one, but now I would be more cautious.
The future is an uncertain place
I would hope that when this technology becomes available there will be safe guards of some type legal and technological. I imagine a firewall in my mind where I could keep my secret thoughts.
Discussion
What do you all think about bio-implantable, would you get one?
Can you think of examples where thought crime is prosecuted now?
If you’re feeling brave
What thought would you be afraid others knew you had?