Neuroethics Police

Andrea Lavazza joins host Katherine Bassil in discussion on the ethical implications of cerebral or brain organoids, a technology that has been developing with high speed ever since its conception. In the first part of this episode, Andrea elaborates on the thought experiment of the philosopher Hilary Putnam on "brains in a vat" and explains why brain organoids carry ethical implications, stressing on what is hope and what is hype. In the second part, we discuss in detail the implications of a recent study where brain function was restored after death. Finally, Andrea sheds light on the importance of focusing on current issues including privacy and commercialization. Are human brain organoids conscious? Will brain organoids aid in the redefinition of life and death? What does the public think of using brain organoids for research? What is the role of scientists, ethicists, journalists and the public in guiding developments in this field? Find out more details on episode 10 of the Neuroethics Police podca