Preview
  • Do We Really Want Immortality?

  • By: David Brin
  • Narrated by: David Brin
  • Length: 35 mins
  • 4.7 out of 5 stars (9 ratings)

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Do We Really Want Immortality?

By: David Brin
Narrated by: David Brin
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Publisher's summary

We moderns take for granted many traits that were those of gods. Like flying through the air. We fill dark rooms with sudden lavish light, with the twitch of a finger. Average folks send messages or observe events across the globe through crystal tubes we command like genies. And yet the one trait of mortality that clings to us is...mortality.

Today, a fresh crop of true believers, including brilliant scientists, view death itself as a problem to be solved. Are they fantasizing? What are the prospects and problems and unforeseen side effects of longer life spans?

©1999 David Brin (P)2016 Audible, Inc.
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Interesting Perspectives on Immortality

Brin addresses the science behind historical increases in human lifespan, what could be done to increase our lifespans in the future, and the ramifications of cryonics / other brain preservation techniques. Technology in this area has advanced beyond the simple frozen brain in a jar we're all familiar with.

He wonders out loud what would even happen if a person's brain was "unfrozen" in the future, and makes reference to a number of science fiction works in which this is part of the plot.

I really liked this. It was full of good science and interesting speculation. And after listening I think I'll be fine just having my brain activity end in the 21st century when my physical body ceases to function for whatever reason.

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