Philosophy and Ethics

From Structure to Self: Philosophy of Mind as the Key to Brain Emulation

Randal A. Koene
MIMIR-IFFS Workshop, Stockholm, January 2025

Abstract

Over the past decade, data acquisition and brain mapping in neuroscience have made remarkable strides. Advanced molecular techniques now enable dynamic recording from every neuron in certain model species well-suited for calcium or voltage imaging, such as C. Elegans, zebrafish larvae, and Drosophila larvae. High-throughput electron microscopy, along with emerging methods like expansion microscopy combined with protein labeling and optical microscopy, facilitates large-scale structural data acquisition at sub-micron resolution. In some cases, such as C. Elegans and fruit flies, complete connectomes have been reconstructed into annotated datasets. The primary challenge today lies in functionalizing connectome data to create working brain emulations. This "functionalization problem" depends on the intended goals of whole brain emulation (WBE), which in turn dictate the required resolution and annotations for dynamic and structural data acquisition (see: scale separation). Evaluating whether a brain emulation achieves its intended purpose requires meeting specific success criteria defined by corresponding validation metrics.

This work focuses on criteria relevant to replicating cognitive function and subjective experience in medical applications, ranging from neuroprosthetics to whole brain prostheses. Success in these areas demands demonstrating both cognitive capabilities and the preservation of a subjective sense of self. However, the criteria and validation metrics are deeply influenced by underlying assumptions about the philosophy of mind. Philosophical presuppositions also shape the neuroethical concerns along the pathway from current technology to applied WBE. Key issues include consciousness in artificial systems, personal identity and the "copy problem," and the ethical implications of discarding imperfect emulations during model selection. Furthermore, assessing whether a WBE approach ensures survival without causing harm or suffering hinges on foundational choices in the philosophy of mind.

The concept of WBE assumes that scale separation is achievable at a suitable resolution and that psychological causal continuity can be maintained. These assumptions align broadly with functionalist perspectives, drawing on insights from Derek Parfit and Thomas Metzinger, among others.

Draft pre-print PDF available for comment: Koene, MIMIR-IFFS, 2025