Where Are the Boundaries of Consciousness When the Brain Can Be Connected to AI?

While age-old challenges regarding the mind, self, and consciousness persist within the labyrinths of philosophy, scientists may be on the verge of solving them through empirical means, even in the absence of a definitive philosophical claim.

A new wearable, noninvasive device has been developed primarily by MIT researchers to connect artificial intelligence (AI) with the brain. It is designed to function as a "silent speech" interface between the human nervous system and a computing system through the ears and jaw. This neural interface device, called AlterEgo, unlike Neuralink, does not require the direct implantation of microchips into the brain. The primary goal of this technology was to help patients with speech disorders, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and multiple sclerosis. However, the perspective on this technology is beyond our imagination. It is a revolutionary advancement with substantial social, psychological, and philosophical implications, although it was predictable that humans would soon develop this technology, given the rapid progress in brain-computer interface research and advancements.

The mechanism of AlterEgo is fascinating. When you think of words or silently say them to yourself, your brain sends signals to your vocal cords and nearby facial muscles. These signals cause small, internal muscle movements that are invisible to the unaided eye. These signals are sent to a computer and then interpreted by an AI that has been previously trained to recognize correlations between specific signal patterns and corresponding words [1].

Apparently, the name "AlterEgo" is intended to convey the concept of an "alternate self." Although the creators of this technology do not claim that AlterEgo establishes a two-way connection between the brain and the internet, this name suggests that the founders are aware of the implications of the extended mind concept through connection to the information superhighway.

How might AI's connection to the brain affect the self and identity?

Identity is the narrative we construct about ourselves, shaped by our memories, skills, learning, values, and beliefs. It is reasonable to imagine that AlterEgo enables people to speak and read any language; understand all scientific theories, philosophical concepts, books, and articles; and solve all math problems.

This superhuman capability is unlike any previous human experience, as it connects to the entirety of human knowledge. But this very connection raises a disturbing question: How far can our minds be extended, and where do the boundaries of the self lie? You might have a thought and wonder, "Was that me, or was it the AI optimizing my thought patterns for productivity?" This could lead to a profound identity crisis and a feeling of inauthenticity.

But what about subjective experiences such as joy, the sensation of pain, the taste of a specific food, or the emotional response to a piece of art? It appears that all cognitive functions fundamentally change when directly connected to the internet and AI. Consciousness is defined as being aware of ourselves and our surroundings. It includes subjective experiences, memories, feelings, and thoughts. It will be interesting to see how AlterEgo influences our consciousness. Since these subjective experiences are not perceivable by others, it is fascinating to consider whether AI can analyze or even perceive them. Additionally, can AI record our dreams and imaginations?

Agency is a fundamental component of the sense of self. If this bidirectional communication provides AI with direct access to the brain, could the AI command the brain to act, thereby completely impairing a person's sense of agency? On the other hand, if someday, AI can access the brain and discover its activity during various behaviors, it may be possible to predict certain actions before they occur, for instance, detecting the intent of a murderer before the killing occurs.

Another issue that logically arises from the connection between the brain and the web is the concept of a global consciousness. If the brain connects to a central AI and, consequently, to other brains, it is plausible to envision a global and unified consciousness. The concept of a unique, bounded self may become obsolete, replaced by a collective, networked identity.

The extended mind theory

If a direct AI link to the brain were truly realized, it would represent the ultimate extension of the self. Andy Clark and David Chalmers introduced the extended mind theory in 1998. They argued that tools we use to enhance our cognitive functions, such as a calculator or even a notebook, are not just aids, but actual parts of our minds. In a theoretical experiment called Otto's notebook, Otto, who has Alzheimer's disease, uses a notebook to record important information. He made an appointment with his friend Inga to visit a museum. He found the address using his notebook. Clark and Chalmers argue that the notebook serves the same functional role as Inga's healthy biological memory. Therefore, the notebook is part of Otto's mind. His belief about the museum's location is literally stored in the notebook [2]. A direct connection between AI and the brain might take the extended mind theory from a philosophical thought experiment into a tangible technological reality.

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Overall, it may still be too early to reach a complete two-way communication between the brain and computer. But people are already worried about what might happen. The biggest worry is this: Can our brain even handle that much information? Think about it. After a long, hard day of thinking and solving problems at work, your brain feels completely fried. You're exhausted, and you need to rest for a long time to recover. Now, imagine a direct, unfiltered flood of information from an AI pouring into your brain. It is hard to believe the brain could take that for long without breaking down or driving a person mad.

And it is not just about thinking, intentions, and emotions. The brain also runs our body; it controls our heartbeat and our breathing, and keeps everything in balance. A direct AI link could mess with these basic life functions and harm the entire body.

Still, for all its potential to solve big human problems, this technological leap could also create some serious new ones. At least, just ask any teacher or professor. How could you ever give a student a test again?