First, we are able to create 3D CG movies of immense detail and outstanding quality. For example, Disney employed exciting new lighting technology in the movie Big Hero 6.
Second, we're able to wirelessly transmit all of that information to a 3D television. That's right. The extreme detail of the movie can be wirelessly sent via specialized transmitters.
Third... 3D television!!! It's amazing enough that we have been able to display anything we can imagine on a flat surface. Now we can trick our brains by using stereoscopic rendering and polarized glasses. Not to mention the amazing glasses-free technologies on the horizon.
Now, consider that we have sophisticated maps of neural pathways, and unobtrusive techniques for scanning an individual's brain. Consider also that the primary distance-covering method of neurotransmission is simply electrical.
Consider further that pain is a matter of hundreds of billions of dollars each year.
Then, in light of aaaaaaall that, considering aaaaall that stuff... Think about our primary method of treating pain. We give people chemicals that have really poor specificity, and seriously negative side effects!
I'm blown away thinking about all that. It isn't like there's no motivation to find the best pain treatment. Someone could get seriously rich off of this, and powerful companies have massive work-forces dedicated to discovering treatments for pain. Not only are the workers real people who probably are highly interested in solving the pain problem for humanity, but also the companies would benefit immensely by solving this problem.
So, why can't we wirelessly transmit pain relief to people's neural cortexes?
Research into treating phantom limb pain wirelessly is promising. How far off is unobtrusive pain relief?
You've got to admit that this is a compelling issue. Thoughts?
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