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Patrick Linden: Life is good; death is bad

Patrick Linden challenges the acceptance of death as natural

In this inaugural episode, philosopher Patrick Linden, co-host and first guest, challenges traditional views on death. He argues for the inherent value of life and rejects the acceptance of age-related diseases and mortality as inevitable. Linden's insights, influenced by his academic background and his book The Case Against Death, advocate for a societal shift toward postponing death indefinitely, emphasizing the need for scientific advancements and a change in mindset.

Key Points:

Patrick Linden, in this episode of the Levity podcast, delves into the potential for extending human life indefinitely and critiques traditional views on aging and death.

  • Longevity as a Central Theme: The podcast focuses on extending human lifespan indefinitely, emphasizing the value of life and the tragedy of death at any age.
  • Critique of the "Wise View": The hosts challenge the traditional philosophical stance that accepts death as natural and inevitable, arguing instead for the rejection of age-related decline.
  • Hope and Technology: The discussion highlights the potential of future scientific advancements to combat ageing and extend healthy life, stressing the importance of maintaining hope and curiosity.
  • Rejection of Overpopulation Concerns: The podcast addresses the common fear that extending life will lead to overpopulation, arguing that technological progress can solve resource issues without resorting to death as a solution.
  • The Problem of ageing: ageing is described as a cruel process that robs people of their vitality just as they gain wisdom, with the hosts advocating for separating the concept of chronological ageing from biological ageing.
  • Moral Imperative: The hosts argue that it is morally wrong to accept death as a solution to societal problems and that the desire to continue living is both natural and justified.

Visit website: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0JPWF11DmzE&list=PLV0_RUrCgRBIbshY87NzibdLNmi4Sj3gA&index=6

See also: Publisher LEVITY Podcast - Ageing Science and radical life extension podcast with Peter Ottsjö and Ingemar Patrick Linden

Details last updated 31-Aug-2024

Mentioned in this Resource

Ingemar Patrick Linden

Author and Adjunct Professor at NYU Tandon School of Engineering