The Architecture of Immortality Through Neuroengineering

Abstract

From mobile health and wearables to implantable medical devices and neuroprosthetics, the integration of machines into human biology and cognition is expanding. This paper explores the technological advancements that are pushing the human–machine boundaries further, raising profound questions about identity and existence in digital realms. The development of robots, androids, and AI–human hybrids promises to augment human capabilities beyond current limits. However, alongside these advancements, significant limitations arise: biological, technical, ethical, and legal. This paper further discusses the existential implications of these technological strides. It addresses the philosophical dimensions of mortality, forgiveness, and the significance of death in a world where technological immortality may be within reach. By addressing these questions, the paper seeks to provide a comprehensive analysis of the potential for these advancements to reshape our understanding of existence and the quest for immortality.

1. Introduction

"But Gilgamesh said to Siduri, the young woman,

How can I be silent,

how can I rest,

when Enkidu whom I love is dust,

and I too shall die

and be laid in the earth."

(Sandars, N.K., The Epic of Gilgamesh. Penguin Books, 1972 [1])

In The Denial of Death, Ernest Becker explores how human culture arises as a response to the awareness of mortality [2]. He emphasizes the existential anxiety caused by the inevitability of death, like the human experience that Gilgamesh describes in a tale as old as time, The Epic of Gilgamesh, one of the oldest documented stories in human history [1]. Originating from ancient Mesopotamia, this epic poem follows the journey of Gilgamesh, the historical king of Uruk, as he seeks to understand and achieve eternal life, raising through his journey philosophical questions about the nature of life and death, and illustrating the limitations of human endeavors to escape death while presenting a nuanced view of immortality from a legacy and divine perspective.

Through mythology, theology, and literature, being immortal is often associated with divine beings or extraordinary individuals who possess supernatural powers. Recent advances in scientific inquiry and therapeutics have pushed through the barriers of the human–machine interface, and currently, reality meets science fiction with superhumans walking among us. The question really goes beyond whether we will become superhuman, as we already are at various levels. The augmentation of human capabilities to unprecedented levels aims to alleviate the human condition and organic suffering through therapeutic innovations. Are these advances positioning us on the brink of transcending human limitations and potentially even crossing the threshold to immortality? What are some of the biological limitations to such neuroengineering, and even more importantly what are the ethical or existential ones? And lastly, with immortality becoming a tangible possibility, is there a value to dying at an individual or even societal level?

The pursuit of immortality through neuroengineering presents a significant convergence of technology, biology, and ethics, where the limits of human life are being reshaped. Implantable medical devices have fundamentally transformed the healthcare field, providing unparalleled possibilities for augmenting human capacities and prolonging lifespan. These devices, which include pacemakers and sophisticated neural implants, vividly demonstrate the incorporation of technology into the human body and raise questions about the characteristics of identity and the fundamental basis of humanity [3,4]. Neuroprosthetics and specialized neurointerfaces are major advancements in the restoration of lost physiological capabilities and the improvement of cognitive capacities. In addition to replacing impaired brain connections, these technologies also seek to boost human capacities, therefore blurring the distinction between rehabilitation and enhancement [4,5].

The advent of human avatars, enabled by progress in virtual reality and digital representation, adds a novel aspect to the discussion on immortality. Digital avatars can function as augmentations of the self, enabling persons to engage in virtual settings while maintaining elements of their authentic identity [6]. The idea of digital consciousness, which entails converting human awareness into digital forms, profoundly challenges our understanding of life and death by suggesting the possibility of existence beyond biological constraints [6,7]. Robots, androids, and AI–human hybrids add further complexity to the discussion on immortality and identity as they defy conventional concepts of persons and agency, leading to important ethical questions about their rights and obligations [7,8].

While neuroengineering and biomedical technology present promising opportunities for prolonging human life, the quest for immortality is limited by both biological and technical constraints. The progressive aging processes inherent in human biology pose significant obstacles that existing technologies are not adequately prepared to completely surmount. Moreover, the technical challenges linked to the integration of sophisticated gadgets into the human body and guaranteeing their sustained operation further hinder the pursuit of immortality [3,4,5]. The consequences of technologies aiming to achieve immortality pause wider challenges for society. Disparities in access to life-extending technology have the potential to worsen current societal inequities, resulting in a gap between those who have the financial means to acquire such improvements and those who lack them [7,8]. The ethical discussions pertaining to neuroengineering and biomedical technology also converge with philosophical questions as to the essence of life and mortality. The endeavor to achieve immortality gives rise to profound reflections on the essence of humanity, the purpose of life, and the worth of human experiences [4,9].

This paper adopts a philosophical approach and employs a thematic review methodology to explore the advancements in human–machine interaction and their implications. The first section highlights the technological innovations and their potential to augment human capabilities. The second section addresses the limitations of these advancements, examining biological and technical challenges as well as ethical and legal constraints. The third section then delves into the philosophical aspects of forgetting, forgiving, and the significance of death, providing a comprehensive analysis of how neuroengineering might reshape our understanding of life, mortality, and the pursuit of immortality. Finally, the paper concludes by synthesizing the findings and reflecting on the broader implications of these advancements for human existence and identity.

2. Emerging Frontiers: Advancements in Human–Machine Interaction

The breadth of innovations transforming human capabilities is wide. Several advancements are current parts of our daily lives, while others are experimental. From medical interventions to enhance survival and longevity to those that create a digital consciousness, the human pursuit of immortality is making strides.

2.1. Mobile Health and Wearables

It is hard to imagine a world that is not as connected, as wirelessly wired, as ours currently. Cell phones, specifically smartphone-based devices and applications, have become omnipresent worldwide. Even in developing countries, where smartphone users account for over 70% of the world’s 6.8 billion cell phone subscribers, mobile healthcare is advancing healthcare delivery and providing the commoners with a way to optimize longevity [10]. The number of cell phone subscriptions continues to expand exponentially reaching more than 8.9 billion in 2023 [11]. Beyond cell phones and smart devices, wearables are routinely encountered in healthcare delivery. The scientific community is in consensus that wearable digital health technology devices will be mainstream and become basic in medical care assessments and decision-making for both patients and clinicians [12].

The emergence of mobile health and wearable technologies has deeply revolutionized the healthcare sector. These technologies include a variety of gadgets, such as fitness trackers, smartwatches, and mobile health applications, that enable ongoing health monitoring and systematic data gathering. In the management of chronic diseases, the promotion of preventative care, and the enhancement of patient autonomy, mobile health technologies have become indispensable instruments. For example, wearable gadgets that monitor essential physiological indicators, such as heart rate and blood pressure, allow individuals to monitor their health measurements in real time, thus promoting a proactive health management strategy. The transition toward self-monitoring is in line with the increasing focus on patient-centered care, which empowers individuals to assume responsibility for their health choices [13].

Indeed, diabetes care highlights the transformation in outcomes for patients affected by type 1 diabetes, where premature mortality was common, to extended life span and quality of life with the advent of continuous glucose monitors and insulin pumps, as well as the most recent advances of the artificial pancreas [14]. While chronic disease remains a major contributor to death, as highlighted in The Center for Disease Control’s national vital statistics reports [15], modulating outcomes through technological advances, such as with diabetes management, has been associated with reduced mortality [16].

However, the implications of these technologies extend far beyond basic health management; they also influence the philosophical debate on immortality. As technology advances, the concept of immortality—traditionally understood from a biological standpoint—is being reexamined in light of innovations that promise to enhance both longevity and quality of life. By continuously collecting data on our biological states, these devices create a digital representation of our health that can extend our awareness of life and death. This raises questions about the nature of selfhood: if our identity becomes increasingly entangled with our digital data, what implications arise for humanity in a context where our physical condition can be perpetually monitored and perhaps enhanced?

Furthermore, wearables facilitate the quest for immortality by promoting proactive health management, which can significantly enhance life expectancy. The technical extension of life raises ethical questions—if we can extend life through technology, ought we to do so? What are the ramifications for our comprehension of a “good” life, and how do we combine the aspiration for longevity with the certainty of mortality? Moreover, the incorporation of wearables into everyday life may cultivate a disconnection from the conventional experience of mortality. As humans increasingly depend on technology for health management, they may cultivate a distorted concept of death, perceiving it as a hurdle to be avoided rather than an inherent aspect of life. This shift can lead to philosophical dilemmas regarding the meaning of life, the acceptance of death, and the human experience in a technologically advanced society. Section 3 of the paper will address these implications.

2.2. Implantable Medical Devices

Implantable medical devices typically require a surgical procedure and serve various purposes, such as monitoring bodily functions, delivering medication, or providing support to damaged tissues. A classic example would be the cardiac pacemaker and defibrillator, which revolutionized arrhythmia and cardiac arrest management, contributing to much of the prolongation of life in patients who needed it [17].

Since the 1958 initial pacemaker implant, the field of implanted medical devices has experienced significant growth due to remarkable advancements in the fields of science and engineering [18]. Currently, the revolution in microelectronics, biotechnology, and materials is underway and bionic humans are encountered on a daily basis. From basic and rudimentary, such as contraceptive intrauterine devices, to advanced and sophisticated, including neurostimulators, drug delivery chips, and cochlear implants, the outcomes of previously debilitating neurodegenerative disorders change [19].

Implantable medical devices have undergone significant advancements in recent decades, encompassing remarkable progress in materials, power sources, and communication technologies. For example, advancements in energy harvesting methods have facilitated the production of battery-free gadgets that can operate autonomously using the body’s endogenous movements or physiological processes [20,21]. These developments decrease the necessity for surgical replacements caused by battery exhaustion and improve the practicality of long-term implantation, which is essential for devices designed to assist with chronic diseases.

Integrating technology with the human body challenges the traditional notion of immortality, which is usually tied to stopping biological aging and death. As these devices become more sophisticated, they have the potential to extend the lifespan and improve the health of individuals, thus fundamentally reshaping the concept of humanity and opening reflections on the essence of life and the moral implications of prolonging life by artificial methods [4,22]. Cognitive enhancement through brain–computer interfaces adds complexity to this discussion, as these technologies have the potential to not only restore lost functions but also enhance cognitive abilities beyond natural limits [4,5].

2.3. Neuroprosthetics and Specialized Neurointerfaces

Neuroprosthetics and specialized neurointerfaces represent a rapidly evolving field at the intersection of neuroscience, engineering, and medicine. These technologies aim to restore or enhance sensory and motor functions in individuals with neurological impairments or limb loss. Neuroprosthetics are devices that interface with the nervous system to restore normal neurologic function. Common ones that we have become accustomed to include hearing aids, while others including retinal prostheses to restore vision, are becoming clinically available [23].

Deep brain stimulation is a successful treatment for carefully selected patients with Parkinson’s disease who experience severe on–off fluctuations, dyskinesia, and tremors that do not respond to medicine [24]. The optimization of such therapy through careful mapping and precision medicine remains promising [25]. More invasive interfaces, like the Utah Array, a component of BrainGate, a neuroprosthetic system designed to enable individuals with paralysis to control external devices using their thoughts [26], or Elon Musk’s Neuralink [27], are revolutionizing the fields of neuroengineering and neuroscience. Neuralink’s primary objective was to develop a brain–machine interface device that could be surgically implanted in the brain to enhance the quality of life for individuals suffering from severe brain and spinal cord injuries. Though the initial results were promising after the first human implant was completed less than a couple of months ago, Rolfe Winkler’s report in the very recent Wall Street Journal publication highlighted current limitations [28].

Neuroprosthetic devices, such as functional electrical stimulation systems, have been developed to assist individuals with conditions like foot drop, which is often a consequence of neurological disorders such as stroke or multiple sclerosis. These systems utilize electrical impulses to stimulate muscles, thereby restoring movement and improving quality of life [29]. The evolution of these devices has been significant, with innovations in architecture, sensorization, and control algorithms enhancing their efficacy and usability [29]. Recent advancements in wireless technologies, including miniaturization and wireless operations, signify a move toward more sophisticated neuroprosthetic solutions that could potentially be integrated into everyday life [30,31].

Retinal implants serve as another compelling example of neuroprosthetic technology. These devices aim to restore vision by electrically stimulating retinal ganglion cells, thereby bypassing damaged photoreceptors [32]. The implications of such technologies transcend mere restoration; they challenge our understanding of sensory perception and introduce a thorough reflection on the essence of human experience. If vision can be artificially restored, what does this mean for the concept of “seeing”? As these technologies become more refined, they may lead to enhancements beyond natural human capabilities, pushing the boundaries of what it means to be human.

The pursuit of immortality through neuroprosthetics is another area of significant interest. The idea of extending human life through technological means, such as the replacement of failing organs with bioengineered devices or the enhancement of cognitive functions through brain–computer interfaces, suggests a future where death may not be the inevitable conclusion of life [33,34].

The capacity of neuroprosthetics to enable a type of digital immortality is notably substantial. By facilitating the transfer of cognitive functions to artificial systems, these technologies may enable certain elements of an individual’s consciousness to endure beyond their biological existence. This raises important questions regarding the nature of consciousness: Is the self solely a byproduct of biological processes, or can it exist autonomously inside a technological framework? If memories and personality traits can be digitized and maintained, what implications does this hold for our comprehension of life and death? To what degree can we assert that persons maintain their original identities if their thoughts, memories, and abilities may be altered or enhanced through technology?

2.4. Human Avatar

The digital representation of a person or “avatar” has been used in medical intervention and has been associated with improved outcomes even in intensive care settings [35]. Currently, companies like Soul Machines and Replika, for example, are developing digital avatars or chatbots that can engage in conversations and aid in daily life and are remarkably similar to their human muse, to almost be described as lifelike. However, these avatars are not conscious beings with their own subjective experiences as they lack true consciousness or self-awareness, two elements that are within the essence of the definition of being alive.

The advent of avatar technologies represents a significant leap in the exploration of human existence, particularly in the context of immortality. These technologies, which include digital twins, virtual reality, and augmented reality, have the potential to redefine our understanding of life, identity, and even death. Avatars have the ability to function as extensions of the self, thus enabling individuals to maintain interaction with the world even in cases when their physical bodies are compromised. An illustrative example of human avatar technology is the utilization of motion capture systems to convert human movements into avatar representations for the purpose of stroke rehabilitation [36]. In addition to facilitating physical recuperation, this technology provides a digital presence that can transcend the physical constraints of the human body. Likewise, the analysis of virtual activities of daily living demonstrates how avatars might support the process of recovery by replicating real-life chores, thus improving the rehabilitation process [37].

Empirical evidence from a study on adaptive training for persons with Parkinson’s disease [38] demonstrates the potential of avatars in promoting emotional and psychological healing in therapeutic settings. By enabling patients to interact with their virtual representations in a nurturing setting, these technologies have the ability to cultivate a feeling of control and consistency, thus expanding the individual’s perception of their own identity beyond their physical constraints. This raises further questions on the intrinsic aspects of identity and the degree to which our digital manifestations can be regarded as reflective of our self.

Avatars are more than just tools for rehabilitation; they play a role in social interactions and digital presence. Interacting with 3D avatars in real time can make digital exchanges feel more realistic and immersive [39]. This functionality enables persons to sustain social relationships in virtual environments, thus establishing a model of digital immortality in which one’s existence can be experienced even after physical demise. Human avatars function as extensions of the self, raising concerns about authenticity as users tailor their avatars to embody idealized versions of themselves. This fluidity impacts conventional concepts of identity, suggesting that if individuals can continuously alter their digital representations, the fundamental nature of identity may become diminished. Furthermore, avatars facilitate social interactions in virtual environments, leading to a reevaluation of the essence of presence and connection: relationships established through avatars may hold the same significance as those in the physical realm. Through the development of digital representations of persons that can accurately depict their appearance, actions, and even personalities, these technologies question conventional ideas of life and death, so provoking ethical and philosophical inquiries regarding identity, existence, and the fundamental nature of human nature.

2.5. Digital Consciousness

René Descartes, revolutionary mathematician and physicist, and a giant in modern philosophy, summarized the relationship between existence and consciousness: “Je pense donc je suis” (or “I think, therefore I am”) [40]. Descartes’ renowned proclamation affirms that self-awareness and the conscious process of thinking serve as conclusive evidence of one’s existence. This fundamental principle in philosophy emphasizes the importance of consciousness in determining one’s self-identity. It implies that even when one doubts or misunderstands the external world, the act of questioning or contemplating affirms the existence of the self. Descartes’s concept also presents his notion of mind–body dualism, which asserts that the mind is a separate and independent entity from the physical body, shaping the philosophical and cognitive science debates on the essence of consciousness and self-awareness.

Digital consciousness is the expanding concept that consciousness, or the state of being aware and capable of subjective experience, could potentially be transferred to or replicated within digital systems. In The Singularity is Near, Ray Kurzweil discusses neuroengineering as a critical component of technological singularity. This allows the human brain to go beyond normal intelligence and memory into an augmented one, where consciousness and memories can be transferred from a biological brain to a digital element [41]. Digital consciousness technologies refer to a variety of innovations that seek to improve human cognitive capacities, enable communication, and eventually prolong human life through digital methods. Among these technologies are brain–computer interfaces, artificial intelligence, and several types of immersive virtual reality, which enable novel modes of connection and engagement with the digital realm.

Brain–computer interfaces represent a breakthrough in the field of digital consciousness technologies. These systems facilitate direct contact between the brain and external equipment, thus enabling users to manipulate technology by means of their cognitive processes. They may provide significant advantages for those with severe impairments, such as those in the process of recuperating from acquired brain injuries [42]. This feature aids in rehabilitation and also prompts us to consider whether it could enhance cognitive functions and extend human abilities, potentially leading toward a form of digital immortality.

The incorporation of artificial intelligence with brain–computer interfaces and other digital consciousness technologies has the potential to generate advanced systems capable of acquiring knowledge and adjusting to the specific needs of individual users. This adaptability might allow us to preserve a person’s thoughts and memories, creating a form of digital consciousness that continues after biological death. The integration of technology in this domain has the potential to radically transform our perception of self and community, thus redefining our notion of life and death [43]. While the possibilities are intriguing, they must be approached with caution, considering the implications for individual autonomy and societal values.

Digital consciousness technologies present substantial ethical concerns and potential hazards. A primary concern pertains to identity and autonomy: if consciousness can be transmitted or modified, who genuinely has that digital self, and what rights do these entities hold? The potential to generate numerous copies of an individual’s consciousness raises concerns about consent and the risk of identity theft or exploitation. Technology poses a threat to the valuation of human life and experience, as the pursuit of digital immortality may eclipse the acceptance of mortality and the intrinsic worth of biological existence. The moral accountability for actions executed by digital entities presents as well substantial dilemmas: if a digital consciousness perpetrates terrible acts, who bears responsibility? the creators, users, or the entity itself? Finally, the possibility of misuse and existential threats linked to sophisticated digital awareness must not be disregarded, requiring meticulous control and ethical standards. As we progress into this unexplored domain, a strong ethical framework will be crucial to address these difficulties and guarantee that technology breakthroughs benefit the greater good without undermining human rights and social equality.

2.6. Robots, Androids, Humanoids, and AI–Human Hybrid Systems

The capabilities of robots and humanoids have made substantial progress, especially in domains such as healthcare and friendship, notably with the rise of intelligent companions specifically created to enrich human existence by facilitating better engagement and cooperation with AI technologies [44]. Bina48 is a project of the Terasem Movement Foundation, which aimed to create a digital likeness of Bina Rothblatt, the wife of entrepreneur Martine Rothblatt. Bina48 is designed to mimic Bina Rothblatt’s appearance and personality based on extensive interviews and data. Despite improvements in her performance, Bina48 is still a machine and does not possess human consciousness. Even though she has the memories of the human Bina, Bina48 appears to be differing in interviews with her human self [45]. Sophia, also developed by Hanson Robotics, is widely recognized as one of the most prominent humanoid robots. She uses AI algorithms and natural language processing to participate in discussions and perform various human-like activities, but she is not a human–AI hybrid [46].

Recent advancements suggest a future where robots could act as extensions of human consciousness. The merging of human cognitive abilities with artificial intelligence—known as hybrid intelligence—creates new forms of existence that blur the lines between biological and artificial life [47], potentially resulting in a novel perception of immortality.

3. Limitations

Although technological advances have accelerated recently, major limitations continue to exist and are worth understanding. With expanding technological solutions, biological and technical limitations are declining; however, ethical and legal limitations remain substantial.

3.1. Biological and Technical Limitations

For millennia, humanity has been captivated by the pursuit of immortality, which has interwoven scientific investigation with philosophical and ethical deliberations. Despite recent progress in bioengineering and biomedical technologies, there are still substantial biological and technical constraints that prevent further exploration of this notion.

From a biological perspective, the human body is intrinsically prone to the processes of aging and degeneration, which are predominantly influenced by genetics and cellular biology. The long-term buildup of cellular damage, caused by oxidative stress and telomere shortening, is a significant obstacle to attaining immortality [48]. Telomeres protect the ends of chromosomes from damage but become shorter each time a cell divides, eventually leading to cell aging or death [49]. While some research suggests that treatments like activating telomerase could help, the long-term consequences of these methods are still unclear [50].

The deterioration of the immune system with aging, referred to as immunosenescence, adds greater complexity to the quest for immortality. With advancing age, the efficacy of the immune response diminishes, thus heightening vulnerability to infections and illnesses [51]. This reduction is not just due to the process of aging but rather is affected by an intricate interaction of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle elements. Overcoming these biological constraints necessitates a comprehensive strategy that includes not only technical progress but also a deeper comprehension of human biology and the mechanisms of aging.

This biological complexity can be illustrated by examining the functioning of the blood–brain barrier, which serves as a critical interface between the bloodstream and the central nervous system, as well as an important protective mechanism for the neuronal tissues within the brain. Despite its importance, the blood–brain barrier is often considered a significant barrier to effective drug delivery and treatment of neurodegenerative disorders [52]. Similarly, the blood–nerve barrier regulates substance exchange between the bloodstream and peripheral nerves and has both protective and potentially obstructive effects. These biological barriers remain effective even when confronted with invasive technological implants [53], posing substantial challenges for neuroengineering by limiting the delivery of therapeutic agents. Their selective permeability makes it difficult for many drugs, biologics, and large molecules to pass through, thereby reducing their efficacy in treating neurological conditions.

From a technical standpoint, the application of bioengineering and biological technologies to attain immortality encounters substantial obstacles. The progress of developing sophisticated biomaterials for implants and regenerative medicine is hindered by difficulties with biocompatibility and mechanical characteristics [54]. Although nanoparticles have demonstrated potential in precise drug administration and imaging, their long-term impact on human health and the environment is rather uncertain [55]. In addition, the discipline of tissue engineering, which seeks to generate functioning tissues for transplantation, is still in its early stages of development and often faces challenges in accurately reproducing the complex structure of natural tissues, which is crucial for their operational effectiveness and durability [56].

3.2. Ethical and Legal Limitations

From mythology, where gods lived on Mount Olympus leaving mortal humans roaming the earth, to religious presentations of the heavens and eternal life, to cinema where movies showcase differences between immortal beings and mortal humans, ethical questions arise. As continued progress blurs the boundaries between biology and technology, concerns emerge about the consequences of prolonging human life eternally. The topics of resource distribution, social fairness, and the parameters of a “good life” are prominent in debates about immortality [57].

The ethical limits of neuroengineering and the pursuit of immortality revolve around safeguarding individual autonomy, ensuring equitable access, and addressing existential concerns [58]. Neuroengineering raises questions about consent, equity, and unintended consequences, while the quest for immortality prompts reflections on the value of life, societal implications, and existential dilemmas. Balancing the potential benefits of these advancements should continue to follow the Hippocratic Oath of “first, do no harm”, and to adhere to principles of beneficence and justice, and a focus on shared societal values and priorities.

A fundamental concern is the concept of cognitive freedom, which refers to an individual’s right to control their own cognitive processes and consciousness. The argument presented is that the ability of neuroprosthetic devices to impact memory or cognition raises substantial ethical issues about autonomy and consent [59]. The capabilities of third parties to access and alter an individual’s memories or ideas pose risks of exploitation and coercion, thereby necessitating robust legal frameworks to protect cognitive rights [59]. The ethical implications of these technologies also extend to the way contemporary culture perceives identity, as individuals may grapple with the authenticity of their memories and experiences when they can be modified by technology.

Furthermore, virtual consciousness does not guarantee continuity of life. The individual is morphed into another, defined by new experiences and new interactions. To known science, a true AI–human hybrid, where artificial intelligence is integrated with a human brain or consciousness, remains unattainable. As digital consciousness and uploads of human memory expand, the statement that digital consciousness is a real extension of being remains debatable. Would that consciousness evolve into its own “being”? Is this immortality or is it rebirth? Would using a repertoire of memories and traits define that continued self, and would that be different than the evolution of societies and cultures that base their present on their history and collective memory?

The idea of “Digital Resurrection”, where companies create highly realistic avatars of deceased people [6], raises ethical questions about informed consent and the authenticity of these digital recreations and challenges our understanding of identity and existence by blurring the lines between life and death. If it is possible to generate a digital representation of a human, who has authority over that representation, and how can it be guaranteed to faithfully reflect the person’s authentic identity? Should an avatar possess the ability to imitate the personality and actions of a deceased individual, what implications does this have for our comprehension of the concept of self? Are these avatars just simulations, or do they maintain some continuity with the person they represent?

The ethical issues in neuroengineering and biomedical technology also touch on deep philosophical questions about life and death. The quest for immortality challenges our understanding of what it means to be human and the value of life. As biotechnology increasingly blends life with artificial elements, experts recommend a careful approach that considers the impacts of altering biological functions and the ethical responsibilities involved [60]. Exploring these philosophical questions is crucial for shaping ethical and legal discussions within the broader context of human values and cultural norms.

4. Forgetting, Forgiving, and the Significance of Death

Confronted with the inevitability of death, the five phases of mourning not only regulate the individual human experience but also the collective society experience. Denial, rage, bargaining, despair, and subsequent acceptance have been exhibited in mythology and theology, while death continues to be mostly an individually subjective phenomenon. Death can be regarded as a manifestation of partial amnesia, signifying the cessation of an individual’s capacity to retain and be recalled in the same manner as during their lived existence. Forgetting also enables the production of an idealized memory that humans are drawn to, as seen by our self-presentation on social media. Human nature inherently includes the capacity to forget and forgive. Given its comprehensive nature, a digital memory might be overwhelming.

At a societal level, forgiveness in its connection to death or forgetfulness involves recognizing historical traumas or injustices, resolving previous conflicts, and collectively progressing while not disregarding the knowledge gained. Ultimately, existence becomes complex, and life is evaluated not just based on its duration but also on its quality. Given the progress in accelerated neuroengineering, mortality is no longer considered “inevitable”. Therefore, optimizing the present life and its quality would result in a desirable state of immortality.

The concepts of forgetting and forgiving and the importance of death are closely linked to philosophical, ethical, and technical discussions, especially regarding the progress in technology aimed at achieving immortality. The philosophical analysis of death often emphasizes its intrinsic importance in shaping human experiences and ethical frameworks. The idea that death gives meaning to life is clear in many philosophical schools, including those of Nietzsche and Heidegger, who argue that acceptance of mortality is essential for authentic existence and moral responsibility [61]. This perspective posits that the processes of forgetting and forgiving empower individuals to proficiently regulate their relationships with others and themselves, thus promoting personal growth and cultivating social cohesion.

In medical ethics, the role of death is often considered alongside modern science’s growing ability to extend life. Issues like euthanasia and assisted dying highlight the tension between the value of life and the desire for a good quality of life. This raises ethical questions about patient autonomy and the right to die with dignity [62,63,64]. Therapeutic interventions that prolong life bring up moral concerns about suffering and the responsibilities of healthcare professionals. With advancements in technology offering the potential for immortality through methods like organ donation and life support, these ethical issues become even more complex [65]. Therefore, it is important to reassess our views on death and its significance in human life.

The ability to stay digitally connected with the deceased might change traditional grieving processes, potentially interfering with essential steps like forgetting and forgiving, which are important for emotional healing [6]. Understanding how these technological advances affect our mental health and relationships is crucial for grasping how technology influences our emotional responses to death. Additionally, the possibility of eternal life brings up questions about how we ensure a sustainable and fair world for those who come after us [66] and requires us to consider the long-term effects of life-extension technology and the legacy we leave behind.

5. Conclusions

As we navigate these complex issues, it is crucial to foster a dialogue that encompasses diverse perspectives, ensuring that the advancements in neuroengineering are aligned with ethical principles that prioritize human dignity and well-being.

Via his exploits, Gilgamesh explores the notion that genuine immortality may not be found in evading death but in creating a lasting impact via one’s deeds and contributions to society. The epic emphasizes the need to embrace human constraints and derive significance from the limited essence of life, concentrating on generating lasting effects instead of pursuing unachievable everlasting existence. By embracing the lessons from Gilgamesh’s tale, we can approach our quest for advanced therapies and longevity with a renewed perspective, focusing on meaningful progress and enduring impact. In doing so, we align our modern scientific endeavors with a deeper understanding of our shared human aspirations, charting a path toward a future where our technological advancements contribute to a legacy of wisdom, compassion, and enduring human achievement.

Future research in neuroengineering and digital immortality must emphasize the establishment of thorough ethical frameworks to direct technological deployment, tackling concerns about consent, identity ownership, and the rights of digital entities. Collaboration across disciplines, including neuroscience, ethics, technology, and sociology, is crucial to examine the wider consequences of these breakthroughs on identity and societal values.