Consciousness, the brain and what matters

Area of Science:

• Bioethics
• Neuroscience
• Philosophy of Mind

Background:

• The concept of ethical value is central to moral philosophy.
• Consciousness is widely considered a key attribute of personhood.
• Neocortical function is understood as the biological basis for consciousness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the relationship between consciousness, ethical value, and the cessation of neocortical function.
• To argue that permanent loss of neocortical function negates a being's status as a locus of ethical value.
• To examine the moral implications for end-of-life care and treatment obligations.

Main Methods:

• Philosophical argumentation based on Grant Gillett's ethical framework.
• Analysis of the necessary conditions for consciousness.
• Ethical reasoning regarding moral obligations to individuals with severe brain damage.

Main Results:

• Consciousness is identified as the sole determinant of a being's locus of ethical value.
• Permanent non-functionality of the neocortex precludes conscious activity.
• Individuals with permanently non-functional neocortices are no longer loci of ethical value.

Conclusions:

• There is no moral obligation to continue treatment for individuals who have suffered neocortical death.
• The cessation of consciousness, linked to neocortical failure, terminates moral consideration.
• This perspective challenges traditional views on the sanctity of life and medical futility.