Design-based methods for exploring ethical questions in the field of neurotechnologies

Abstract

Numerous complex and multi-faceted ethical questions arise from the innovation of neurotechnologies. Addressing these issues effectively requires the involvement of a diverse range of stakeholders, including patients, treatment providers, home users, scientists and engineers from different disciplines, and industry representatives. Different groups, however, possess varying levels of knowledge and experience regarding the ethical use and innovation of neurotechnologies. Therefore, customized methods are needed to identify their perspectives and ethical concerns. This article aims to introduce practical methods for eliciting ethical questions in the field of neurotechnology, including user journeys, persona approaches, material thinking, scenario building, fictional media contributions, and categorization.

Keywords

• Design-based methods
• stakeholder involvement
• applied ethics
• neuroethics
• participation
• community engagement