From invasive and non-invasive brain-computer interfaces to data privacy, governance models, and the impact on democracy and human dignity, the Pufendorf-Theme has examined how these technologies are reshaping our brains, bodies, and societies. Now, the researchers invite academic staff, students, practitioners, and curious minds - to join them for a provocative, participatory workshop where we’ll collectively imagine and interrogate possible neurotech futures.

Over the past eight months, the interdisciplinary research group, the Theme, Neurotechnologies: Delivering their responsible development and use - has brought together experts in neuroscience, ethics, law, sociology, technology studies, and philosophy- exploring the promises and perils of neurotechnologies. Welcome to an open workshop at Pufendorf Institute for Advanced Studies!

Neurofutures: Who Controls Your Mind?

Neurotechnologies are no longer science fiction. They’re in our workplaces, schools, and homes - raising urgent questions:

• Who designs these technologies, and for whom?
• How might they reshape our relationships, identities, and freedoms?
• What futures do we want to avoid - and what alternatives can we build?

Through embodied activities, storytelling, and open discussion, we’ll step into Neurofutures, critique their implications, and reimagine what’s possible. No expertise required, just curiosity and a willingness to engage!

Programme

9:00 – 9:30 Arrival and coffee

9:30-10:15 Presentation of the Pufendorf IAS Theme: Neurotechnologies Today.

10:15 – 11:15 Scenario immersion: Exploring Neurofutures 

11.15 – 11:30 Coffee Break 

11:30 – 12:15 Neurofutures Game

12.15 – 13:00 Lunch, Discussion and Final Remarks 

Practicalities and registration

The event is held in English. We will serve both "fika" and a light lunch during the day. The event is free of charge. 

We are going to take photos of this event and the photos will be widely used. If you don't want to be photographed, please alert us upon arrival.

Please register for this event as soon as possible but not later than 15 May:

Link to registration: Neurofutures: Promises and Perils of Neurotechnologies

Please contact aurelija.lukoseviciene@jur.lu.se cc Kristina Hug kristina.hug@med.lu.se if you have questions about this event's content.

Read more about the Pufendorf IAS Theme

Neurotechnologies: Delivering their responsible development and use | The Pufendorf Institute for Advanced Studies