A federal investigation into animal cruelty is reportedly underway at Elon Musk’s brain implant business, Neuralink.
The US Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) inspector general opened an investigation to investigate potential Animal Welfare Act violations.
Elon Musk’s Company Allegedly Killed Numerous Animals
There are specifics regarding several animal welfare issues that were brought up in interviews with more than 20 current and former Neuralink personnel. However, it is unclear how extensive the investigation is.
In one experiment, it was claimed that 25 out of 60 pigs had the incorrect size of a device inserted as part of the investigation.
Two separate pigs apparently had devices implanted in the wrong vertebra in another experiment, which resulted in the euthanasia of the pigs to end their agony.
Even though it’s standard procedure to kill animals during scientific experiments so the autopsy can yield more information.
Former and current staff, however, asserted that rerunning the tests in the event of an error could cause an inordinate number of deaths. Additionally, they might alter the generated data, which would lessen the accuracy of the data. Since 2018, Neuralink has murdered approximately 1,500 animals.
There is no concrete proof to support this, but there have been internal concerns that Musk’s desire for rapid advancement has led to an unhealthful workplace with a stressed-out and unprepared crew.
Read more: China’s Pig Skyscraper Could Lead to Massive Outbreaks, Experts Warn
Neuralink Brain Implant
Neuralink might soon begin human trials, according to Musk, who has spoken out about the possibility. In fact, he stated that they intended to place the device inside a human cranium within the following six months.
Neuralink had already come under fire for its handling of animals when a charitable organization called the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) claimed that the monkeys used in the procedure were handled cruelly.
Neuralink aims to create methods for the human brain to communicate with computers directly to aid in treating specific neurological diseases. It also tries to aid in the movement of the paralyzed. The business has showcased several public animal demonstrations, including a monkey using its brain to play Pong.
Animal experimentation is morally problematic in the eyes of animal rights organizations or people who oppose utilizing animals for purposes other than food and companionship.
They adhere to speciesism, which holds that human life has a unique value and may lead to people being ranked higher in terms of moral importance than non-human animals. This could lead to the development of a prejudice called speciesism that infringes on the rights of individuals belonging to other species.
It’s important to remember that various goods and treatments are tested on animals before being used on humans, which can lead to better health outcomes.
Read more: Omicron Origins Are Called Into Question by a New Study.