Nelson Borelli, MD

BRAIN, MIND, and RESPONSIBILITY 

In the twentieth century, scientists started focusing heavily on understanding the human brain. Over the last 130 years, we’ve gained a tremendous amount of knowledge about its structure and function, captivating society, and leading to the integration of moral values and agency with the brain. However, it’s important to clarify that using the terms “brain” and “mind” interchangeably is misleading. Associating moral decision-making to the brain is incorrect and socially problematic since the brain cannot be held responsible for moral choices made by individuals.

BRAIN The brain is an incredible tool, akin to a computer but far more sophisticated. However, it doesn’t possess its own mind. At birth, it’s like a blank hard drive with no pre-loaded moral information. As a person grows up and interacts with society, the brain gets filled with moral values from their surroundings. It’s like storing data on this biological “hard drive” as one develops one’s own moral compass.

The brain, just like any other organ, operates based on biological, physical, and chemical laws. These laws are universal, applying to all humans irrespective of social or political status. The brain, by itself, isn’t linked to human morality or ethics. Its role is to serve our bodies and help us navigate our lives. It’s exceptionally proficient at storing the moral and ethical information we feed it.

MIND The term “mind” has dual meanings in English, depending on whether it’s used as a verb or a noun. When used as a verb, “mind” means to think or consider, representing an individual’s moral standpoint or opinions. As a noun, “mind” refers to a person’s lifelong collection of thoughts and actions, encapsulating their beliefs and behaviors throughout their life.

RESPONSIBILITY Responsibility, according to Oxford Languages and Google, pertains to having a duty to manage or control something or someone. This concept of duty and the subsequent accountability through punishment or consequences is a uniquely human attribute. The brain, being a biological entity, doesn’t possess such responsibilities or duties.

SUMMARY                                                                                                                                          

Brain and mind are distinct entities: the brain is a biological tool, while the mind, whether used as a noun or a verb, represents a moral entity. Attributing moral responsibility to the brain is a way to evade personal accountability for our actions. As Shakespeare aptly stated, “The fault…is not in our stars, but in ourselves.”

December 2023