the living threshold : a framework for consciousness in biocomputing systems

This paper introduces a precautionary framework for assessing consciousness-related risk in emerging biocomputing systems that integrate living neural tissue with computational architectures. As organoid intelligence and biological computing advance, current assumptions regarding the absence of consciousness in such systems remain unverified and lack a formal empirical basis. In the absence of a validated theory of consciousness, the field requires structured methods for evaluating uncertainty and potential ethical implications. The paper proposes the Consciousness Risk Assessment Framework (CRAF), a multi-domain model evaluating substrate complexity, integrative dynamics, and behavioural continuity. A longitudinal assessment methodology is introduced to distinguish transient adaptive behaviour from persistent internal modelling. An Operational Threshold for Ethical Escalation (OTEE) is defined to identify systems requiring heightened monitoring and ethical oversight. The framework does not assert the presence of consciousness but provides a testable structure for managing uncertainty as system complexity increases. This work aims to support empirical research, ethical governance, and risk-aware development in biocomputing and hybrid neural systems.