DoD to Develop Concealable Lie Detector

According to a New Scientist article, the Department of Defense is allocating funds to develop a Remote Personnel Assessment (RPA) that ‘will use microwave or laser beams reflected off a subject’s skin to assess various physiological parameters’ such as pulse, respiration and changes in electrical conductance without the need for wires or skin contacts. The device can be used on moving or uncooperative subjects or could be concealed during an interrogation. Another use would be to spot terrorists or suicide bombers in a crowd by detecting physiological parameters outside of the norm.

Lie detectors have always elicited a great deal of controversy. Opponents argue that polygraphs are 'junk science' that use trickery to elicit confessions. On the other hand, the American Polygraph Organization has compiled over 80 studies that help support the validity of the machines. If DoD's research goals are realized, what will the practical effects and benefits of this technology be outside of the stated purpose? What new ethical concerns will it present?

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