Could This Test Objectively Measure Human Consciousness?
Monitoring the Conscious Brain Ian Ruotsala via FlickrNeuroscientists are developing tests that could clarify whether vegetative patients retain any awareness. Determining whether a brain-injured patient is conscious is fraught with moral and ethical complexity: What does it mean to be awake? What does it mean to be truly alive? Medically, it's an open question, as doctors have to determine whether a vegetative patient's responses to stimuli are reflexive or purposeful. Morally and legally, it's a minefield--remember Terri Schiavo? Despite the difficulties, neuroscientists in Europe are moving closer to an objective measure of consciousness. We have seen several interesting tests and therapies over the years to assess locked-in and vegetative patients, and even to help them communicate. In one notable case, a man who was categorized as vegetative and unconscious responded to yes-or-no questions in the same manner as a fully alert person. Other studies show that EEG devices can be used...