Facing the possibility of consciousness in human brain organoids.
Patterns September 12, 2025
Some neuroscientists and philosophers argue that human brain organoids cannot develop consciousness due to limited complexity, lack of bodily integration, and neuroscientific consensus. This paper argues that such dismissal is premature, drawing on neuroscientific benchmarks, comparisons to developing brains, and theories of consciousness. The authors caution against treating skepticism as dogma and advocate for ongoing ethical assessment of organoids' advancing capabilities.