Facing the possibility of consciousness in human brain organoids.

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.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Human brain organoids (HBOs) have emerged as transformative models for neurodevelopment and disease, yet ethical concerns persist regarding their potential to develop consciousness. Since 2020, a growing cohort of neuroscientists and philosophers has dismissed these concerns as unscientific, citing limited structural complexity, absence of bodily integration and environmental interaction, and a prevailing neuroscientific consensus against the feasibility of any, or any near-future, emergence of HBO consciousness, thus challenging any suggested revisions of ethical guidelines and safeguards. We argue that this dismissal is premature. Drawing on neuroscientific benchmarks, comparisons to the developing human brain, contemporary theories of consciousness, and principles of natural developmental progression, we question the basis for selectively excluding consciousness from among HBOs' expanding functional repertoire. We caution against enshrining such skepticism into dogma or using it to defer ethical engagement. Instead, we advocate for proactive, ongoing assessment of the moral implications of advancing HBO capabilities.