Neurotechnology through the lens of users and as a novel field for society

Successful and responsible innovation in neurotechnology requires clear ethi-
cal priorities and a deep understanding of individual and societal needs as well
as public concerns. Recent cases of consumer exploitation, misleading claims,
and inadequate patient aftercare reveal critical gaps in current practices and
underscore the urgent need for more ethical, transparent, and user-centered
engagement in this rapidly developing field. This study focuses on four comple-
mentary domains: (1) neuroethics and embodiment; (2) the cultural embedding
of neurotechnologies; (3) art and culture in relation to neurotechnology; and
(4) human enhancement, technovisions, and sociotechnical imaginaries. Across
these domains, the manuscript explores user and societal perceptions, high-
lighting often overlooked asymmetries in communication between scientists and
entrepreneurs and those who ultimately receive research outcomes in the form
of products. Drawing on the authors’ multidisciplinary expertise and a synthe-
sis of the relevant literature, the manuscript outlines a possible foundation for
developing more balanced, inclusive and symmetric communication formats that
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empower stakeholders regardless of status or expertise. Integrating insights from
neurotechnology with applied ethics, the humanities, social sciences, technology
assessment and the arts, this work seeks to contribute to a broader understand-
ing of the societal and individual impacts of emerging neurotechnologies and to
support the protection and empowerment of users by prioritizing their needs.