Consciousness, the Human-Animal Foundational Distinction, and Ephemeral Connections to Humans

Abstract

Abstract This chapter provides the results of the analysis of the public’s views. While bioethicists and scientists are primarily concerned that an organoid or a neuro-chimera could acquire increased consciousness, the public does not appear to be greatly concerned with consciousness. Rather, evidence shows that the public is principally concerned about violating the foundational distinction between humans and animals. In its strongest form, this concern produces not only opposition to chimeras but a disgust-driven backlash against them, with the public suggesting that they be treated worse than others of their species. This chapter also shows that the public does indeed believe in ephemeral connections to disembodied human parts like organoids, and that such belief is associated with opposition to creating organoids.