Cyborghumans

Cyborghumans are individuals who merge cybernetic systems with their biology to enhance physical or cognitive capabilities. The term describes a spectrum, from implanted devices that restore function to permanent, integrated technologies that interface with the nervous system. Cyborghumans are distinguished from ordinary prosthetics or autonomous machines by the degree of bodily integration and the retention of human biology and agency.

Common technologies include neural interfaces (invasive or non-invasive) that allow brain signals to control devices or receive sensory input; implanted sensors and actuators; advanced prosthetics; exoskeletons; and methods for sensory augmentation such as enhanced vision or hearing.

Approaches may be medical (restoration after injury or illness), therapeutic (neurostimulation for chronic conditions), or enhancement-focused (improved sensory perception or cognitive processing). Variants range from non-permanent wearable augmentation to fully integrated implants that communicate with neural circuits.

Ethical, legal, and social considerations include safety, risk of harm from invasive procedures, data privacy, consent, access and equity, identity and autonomy, and regulatory oversight. Debates often focus on how to balance innovation with protection against coercion, surveillance, or discrimination, and how to define rights for cyborghumans.

As of the early 2020s, cyborghuman technology is active primarily in research and niche medical settings, with consumer-grade neurotechnology limited and ethically regulated. The field is characterized by rapid development in brain–computer interfaces, materials science, and bioengineering, which may expand capabilities and social impact in the coming decades.