I’ve given this some thought. If the technology to capture and contain spiritual entities existed, the natural progression of this industry would be to study them for scientific research and attempt to establish some manner of communication in order to gain a better understanding of our universe and the future of our own existence, rather than simply eliminating them as a means of pest control.
I’m not sure if the containment unit is intended to be a portal to the afterlife or merely an incarceration within this dimension. This raises some obvious ethical and philosophical questions. Even the detainment of suspected terrorists is heavily scrutinized on the basis of morality. Many activist groups advocate for the humane treatment of animals. Surely, a Spirits’ Rights Movement would arise amidst all the publicity surrounding the busting of ghosts, especially when people’s loved ones pass away.
This could create political controversy for the Ghostbusters, which they are already accustomed to, and poses a legal predicament for the future of their business. Although some spiritual entities are benign, others are malevolent beings with diabolical intentions, along with demonic entities that have no human origin; both of which present a very real threat to humanity.
The scientific community, as a whole, would be extremely interested in the technological advancements and metaphysical discoveries of Dr. Spengler & co. Though I dislike nearly everything I’ve read about Feig’s reboot, he’s right about one thing. Without a doubt, the government would seek to employ or contract paranormal investigators for the purpose of studying this phenomena and exploiting its potential. It could even have military applications if the government figured out how to harness a spirit and coerce it into combat or espionage. A conscious entity that is invincible to conventional weaponry and has the ability to transcend physical barriers would be invaluable to national security, though I’m not suggesting that as a major plot point, just an incentive for federal involvement in paranormal research and development.
It would be interesting if there was a Spectral Observatory which the public could attend, much like a zoo or museum. In the GB video game, Slimer was confined in the firehouse to a transparent enclosure. Imagine that on a much larger scale with dozens of ghosts inside of a dimly lit facility that is illuminated by the energy of these entities. Perhaps the ghosts eventually escape their paranormal penitentiary and wreak havoc on New York City.
Who ya gonna call?