Abstract

Τhe objective of this manuscript is to show that in “brain dead” patients it is not possible to prove either the existence of a totally damaged brain or the absence of the soul and the content of consciousness. Furthermore, another objective is to show that the concept of “brain death” is a utilitarian construct which does not have any firm medical or philosophical foundation. Τo achieve this goal, we present known and novel arguments from the medical literature and unknown arguments from the philosophical literature. We conclude that there are multiple self-evident inconsistencies inherent in the concept of “brain death”, thereby invalidating this diagnosis both on biological and philosophical grounds.

Keywords: Brain death; Consciousness; Soul; Philosophy; Theology