I do agree with you here. My point is paralysing the monkey didn't help them collect data about how a monkey walks, quite the opposite. Reasonable observations

I do agree with you here. My point is paralysing the monkey didn't help them collect data about how a monkey walks, quite the opposite. Reasonable observations would consist of using electrodes to monitor left leg movements vs right leg movements. Running vs walking, joint extension etc. Build a waveform generator and compare the generated waveforms vs real waveforms and iterate. (The scientists did actually do this.) Once you've got a fair degree of confidence then you can try apply your work. Paralysing a monkey just to replay captured data when we already know we can interface with the nervous system is totally unnecessary. Edit: It should really go without saying that when it does come time to apply your work you do everything within your power to avoid harming a non-consenting creature. Does applying the work even require paralysing a monkey? Can it be temporary? What about sedation and then interfacing with the nervous system whilst sedated?