What even are we? Who are you? Once you can modify behavior, is there any doubt about free will. There is nothing to us. No core, no self. and It can be done with AI too. https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=40459543
The idea that behavior can be altered by drugs or surgery is nothing new. You can also die, or kill, and put an end to all behavior forever. The core is a step beyond that.
"The core is a step beyond that."
Where? If you've found it you should write a paper.
I think the point here is, a virus, and in other studies even 'magnets' can do it. You can modify behavior, such that the person does not realize they are modified. They believe they made these decisions themselves, when in reality they were being tweaked externally.