The development of behavioral technologies intended for military-grade persuasion in cyber-operations has its roots in a particular perspective on human beings. This perspective views individuals as manipulable subjects rather than rational agents, which is at odds with the way they should be viewed in democratic societies. As a result, the use of these technologies raises important ethical and moral questions about the nature of democracy, human freedom, and individual autonomy.

Behavioral technologies are designed to influence and manipulate the behavior of individuals, and they often rely on the exploitation of cognitive biases and psychological vulnerabilities. In the context of cyber-operations, these technologies are used to target individuals with personalized content and messaging, often with the goal of changing their attitudes, beliefs, or behaviors. The development of such technologies is based on the assumption that individuals can be easily influenced and manipulated, and that their behavior can be predicted and controlled through the use of targeted interventions.

This perspective on human beings is at odds with the way they should be viewed in democratic societies. In democratic societies, individuals are viewed as rational agents who are capable of making their own decisions and choices, and who have the freedom to express their views and opinions without fear of coercion or manipulation. Democracy requires the active participation of citizens, who are expected to be informed and engaged in the political process. The use of behavioral technologies in cyber-operations undermines this ideal by treating individuals as passive subjects to be manipulated rather than as active citizens with agency and autonomy.

Moreover, the use of behavioral technologies raises important ethical and moral questions about the nature of freedom and individual autonomy. The ability to influence and manipulate individuals’ behavior can be seen as a form of coercion that violates their autonomy and freedom. In a democratic society, individuals are entitled to make their own choices and decisions, even if those choices or decisions are not in line with the preferences of those in power. The use of behavioral technologies to influence and manipulate individuals’ behavior can be seen as a violation of this fundamental principle, as it seeks to undermine individuals’ agency and autonomy.

In conclusion, the development of behavioral technologies intended for military-grade persuasion in cyber-operations is rooted in a specific perspective on human beings, one that is at odds with the way they should be viewed in democratic societies. The use of these technologies raises important ethical and moral questions about the nature of democracy, human freedom, and individual autonomy. As such, it is important to carefully consider the implications of these technologies and to ensure that they are used in ways that respect individuals’ autonomy and agency, and that do not undermine the principles of democracy.