Weaponizing the Brain

In this second of a three-part series, we continue our discussion of potential uses of neurocognitive science in military operations. In the United States, programs are examining ways that brain science can be employed to augment warfighters’ and intelligence operators’ performance, and alter adversaries’ capabilities with regards to key cognitive and physical tasks. Similar projects are being conducted by others around the world, by friends and potential foes.

We colloquially refer to "winning hearts and minds'', but might brain science enable us to "win hearts by affecting the mind?" What are the most cutting-edge developments and probable uses of brain science in such national security, intelligence and defense operations? In 20 years, what is on the horizon of possibility in the ways brain science might be used in such ways?