From: mk_thisisit
The development of biocomputing, specifically the use of living neurons for computational purposes, introduces novel ethical considerations that require careful deliberation. Companies like Final Spark, which are pioneering the creation of living processors from biological cells, are engaging with these complex issues [00:00:01].
Final Spark’s Approach to Ethics
Final Spark, a Swiss biocomputing startup, acknowledges that ethical issues are a significant concern with their groundbreaking work [14:44:00]. While the company’s primary focus is on scientific and engineering problems—like keeping neurons alive [00:36:00]—they recognize that they are not the sole experts on ethical matters [14:26:00].
To address these concerns, Final Spark has proactively:
- Engaged with Experts They have established contacts with universities and their “ethics people,” recognizing these individuals as experts whose daily job involves navigating such fields [14:57:00].
- Participated in Conferences In November, they attended an ethics conference to introduce ethicists to their work [15:09:00]. This engagement allows those knowledgeable in the field to consider the implications of using living neurons for computational purposes [15:17:00].
Sourcing of Human Cells
A key ethical question for biocomputing ventures is the origin of the biological material [02:59:00]. Final Spark purchases human cells from specialized companies [03:04:00]. These are pluripotent stem cells, typically derived from fibroblasts (skin cells), which are then reprogrammed to a state where they can become any type of cell [03:10:00]. These cells are subsequently differentiated into neurons and other brain cells [03:45:00].
Why Human Cells?
The decision to use human cells over animal cells, such as rat cells, for computations is a significant ethical consideration [15:32:00]. While rat cells could potentially perform similar computations [15:39:00], Final Spark’s rationale is that potential future discoveries from their work, such as therapeutic applications, would ideally benefit people more than rats [15:56:00]. This highlights a pragmatic ethical perspective focused on potential human benefit.
Learning and Behavior in Biocomputing
The goal of teaching these neurons to process information and enforce specific behavior is a central challenge in biocomputation [13:12:00]. Strategies, such as using dopamine to reward desired actions by a brain organoid, are being explored [13:35:00]. This raises questions about the nature of “learning” and “behavior” in biological systems used for computation, entering into the broader domain of the ethics of technology and human interaction.