Civil liability challenges for the law and neural interface devices: reconceptualising the law

Topic: Civil liability challenges for the law and neural interface devices: reconceptualising the law

Presenter: Scott Kiel-Chisholm - PhD Candidate, TC Beirne School of Law

The use of prosthetics is not new however, the ability of the human mind to instruct and control these devices is becoming a reality. This melding of mind and machine challenges the law in determining where civil liability for injury, damage or loss should lie. The ability for the law to address this currently unique situation will have a fundamental impact on the parties involved and society at large. The central theme of this thesis is that the current law will have difficulty adequately resolving the civil liability issues that are emerging in these circumstances. Recommendations will assist in providing a legal framework in which these innovative devices can be used for the benefit of those in need.

Focussing on negligence, product liability and consumer protection, the thesis will engage doctrinal research methodology and empirical research methodology using a systematic, interactive forecasting technique known as the Delphi method. Involving experts in this pioneering field will enable a greater understanding of how this combination of human being and neural interface device will be interpreted and understood by the law in the context of civil proceedings. 

All welcome, please register by emailing Beth Williams.

Contact: Beth Williams, ph: (334) 69350, email: events@law.uq.edu.au