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New Scientist Podcasts
Why We Die by Venki Ramakrishnan - Royal Society Trivedi Science Book Prize Conversations
Oct 1, 2024
In this engaging discussion, Nobel Prize-winning biologist Venki Ramakrishnan dives into his book on aging and mortality. He questions why some creatures enjoy long lives while others do not, exploring the evolutionary significance of aging. Venki also tackles the pressing issue of immortality, discussing emerging technologies and their societal implications. He challenges common misconceptions about aging and highlights the intricate relationship between lifespan and metabolism, prompting thought-provoking reflections on our mortality.
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Quick takeaways
- Recent advancements in biology reveal that aging involves complex biological processes rather than just wear-and-tear, transforming our understanding of mortality.
- The prospect of life extension introduces ethical concerns about intergenerational inequality and societal vitality, challenging how we envision the future of aging.
Deep dives
The Science of Aging and Human Mortality
Aging and mortality are profound existential questions that shape human culture and society. Despite being aware of our mortality, humans lacked the ability to significantly alter the aging process for most of history. Recent advancements in biology have led to a better understanding of aging mechanisms, revealing that aging is not merely a wear-and-tear phenomenon but involves intricate biological processes. Research shows that as society ages, it faces challenges in maintaining the health and productivity of the elderly population, creating a surge of interest in potential interventions to mitigate age-related diseases.
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