Consciousness and Human Brain Organoids: A Conceptual Mapping of Ethical and Philosophical Literature.
Aileen Van Gyseghem, Kris Dierickx, Andrew J Barnhart
AJOB neuroscience July 9, 2025 DOI: 10.1080/21507740.2025.2519459 via PubMed
Summary
Consciousness in human brain organoids (HBOs) is difficult to define and detect because existing theories conflict. This review of 24 peer-reviewed publications reveals six key themes: how consciousness is defined, biological limits of organoids, conflicting theories of consciousness, methods for detecting consciousness, comparisons with other conscious entities, and the unique ethical status of HBOs. Uncertainty about consciousness itself complicates ethical debates. The authors suggest that focusing on organoid intelligence—a more concrete concept—may advance research and communication, while clear language is needed to avoid misunderstandings.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Systematic review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 24 |
| Population | Peer-reviewed publications on consciousness in human brain organoids |
| Keywords | Human brain organoids Philosophy Lab-grown brain models Organoid intelligence Bioethics |
| Citations | 17 |
| Key finding | Uncertainty about consciousness complicates ethical discussions of human brain organoids, and focusing on organoid intelligence may be more tractable. |
Abstract
Human brain organoids (HBOs) are three-dimensional structures derived from human pluripotent stem cells that model aspects of fetal brain development. As HBO models grow more complex, ethical concerns arise, particularly around the potential for consciousness. Defining and detecting consciousness in HBOs remains unresolved, with existing theories offering conflicting predictions. This systematic review examines how consciousness is conceptualized in the ethical and philosophical literature concerning HBOs. We selected peer-reviewed publications written in English from 2013 onward that directly address consciousness regarding HBOs. After screening 51 sources, 24 were analysed in themes: Consciousness Terminology, Biological Limitations, Theories of Consciousness, Detecting Consciousness, Comparisons with Conscious Entities, and Special Entities. Uncertainty about consciousness in general complicates the conversation around HBOs. Clear communication is essential to avoid misconceptions, and future research may benefit from focusing on organoid intelligence as a more tractable concept.