Chapter 1: Unpacking the Research

What unforeseen dangers might arise from science's ability to interpret our auditory experiences?

Photo: Jeremy Gaunt

Could it be that Pink Floyd, a band renowned for advocating against oppressive thought control, has unwittingly paved the way for a more invasive approach to our minds? The irony is striking.

For those who may not be aware, here's a brief overview of the situation. Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, conducted an intriguing experiment involving 29 participants. They played Pink Floyd's iconic track "Another Brick in the Wall" from their groundbreaking 1979 album, "The Wall."

The researchers recorded the brainwaves of the subjects while they listened and employed AI technology to analyze these signals, ultimately recreating both musical tones and spoken words from the data. The outcome? A recognizable version of "Another Brick in the Wall."

In essence, this development signifies that science has the potential to listen in on our auditory experiences. Or, as Pink Floyd might say, “Welcome to the Machine.”

This advancement sparked considerable excitement in my inner music enthusiast. As a lifelong fan of Pink Floyd, I felt a sense of pride that their work was chosen for such innovative research. The song's selection was certainly justified, given its widespread recognition.

However, the skeptic within me—who has been influenced by the band's messages since I first discovered that “See Emily Play” wasn’t just a simple children’s story—began to surface. What are the next steps for science in this realm? While the researchers aim to achieve noble objectives, such as enhancing communication for those with neurological disorders, there are unsettling implications.

What if this newfound capability evolves into a method for reading people's innermost thoughts? Imagine sitting in a meeting, only for your boss to “hear” your unspoken thoughts like, “What an arsehole.” Or facing disciplinary action from HR due to an inappropriate thought about a coworker. One misstep could lead to severe consequences, such as imprisonment for harboring dissenting opinions about a local leader.

Some may dismiss these concerns as overly dramatic, believing this research is merely benign and aimed at helping people. However, the intersection of science and capitalism often leads to unexpected outcomes. I recall my scientist father bringing home the first-ever computer recording—a slow, buzzing rendition of “Daisy, Daisy” on a floppy plastic disc.

Now, we find ourselves in an age where conversations with computers are commonplace. They not only listen to us but also track our interests and, through AI, predict our desires. Just 60 years ago, the internet was an emerging scientific project aimed at connecting research centers. Today, it influences our lives profoundly, offering both benefits and drawbacks. While it facilitates education, it also spreads misinformation, exposes us to adult content, and captivates the youth through endless online distractions.

So, while the ability to hear “Another Brick in the Wall” through brainwaves is undeniably fascinating, it also raises significant concerns about the potential exposure of our most private thoughts. Pink Floyd, of course, seemed to foresee this predicament.

Welcome, my son

Welcome to the machine

What did you dream?

It’s alright, we told you what to dream.

As a side note, in Stanley Kubrick’s “2001: A Space Odyssey,” as HAL approaches its demise, it sings “Daisy, Daisy,” a poignant reminder of our technological progress.

Chapter 2: The Cultural Impact of Music and Technology

The second video, "Pink Floyd - Another Brick In The Wall, Part Two," sheds light on the enduring cultural significance of the band's work and its relevance to contemporary issues surrounding thought and freedom.