Research on Human-Machine Consciousness from the Perspective of Brain-Computer Interface
Yixue yu zhexue January 15, 2026 DOI: 10.12014/j.issn.1002-0772.2025.24.02 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Brain-computer interface Human-machine relationship Functionalism Cognitive sovereignty |
| Key points | Argues that human and machine consciousness are functionally isomorphic but differ in content, and that machines may evolve from formal to non-formal systems. Proposes a three-tier ethical conflict framework—consciousness maintenance, consciousness conflict, consciousness substitution—and three governance paths: humanistic value algorithms, balanced two-way brain-machine information flow, and expanded cognitive sovereignty. |
Abstract
Based on computational functionalism and Hofstadter's hierarchical isomorphism theory, this study demonstrates the functional isomorphism and content differences between human and machine consciousness, revealing the possibility of machines evolving from formal systems to non-formal systems. It puts forward a three-tier ethical conflict framework of "consciousness maintenance−consciousness conflict−consciousness substitution" between humans and machines in the context of brain-computer interface (BCI), and analyzes the practical challenges between BCI and consciousness with case studies. Finally, from a governance perspective, three paths are proposed: embedding humanistic value algorithms at the technical level, regulating the two−way brain–machine information flow balance at the information level, and expanding the consensus on "cognitive sovereignty" at the neural level. Centered on medical clinical scenarios, the research provides theoretical support for the safe application and ethical governance of BCI.