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HARDtalk

Stephen Cave: Should we want to live forever?

Jan 8, 2024
Stephen Cave, philosopher and director of the University of Cambridge Institute for Technology and Humanity, discusses the dangers of extending human longevity, the concept of immortality and afterlife, the fear of mortality, cryogenic freezing and digitizing consciousness as paths to immortality, the philosophical and practical implications of transferring psychological data, and managing AI and its potential impacts on healthcare and society.
23:30

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Quick takeaways

  • The awareness of our own mortality has shaped our quest for meaning throughout history, leading to different beliefs and practices.
  • Extending human longevity through life extension technologies and artificial intelligence raises ethical and philosophical questions that need careful consideration before embracing immortality.

Deep dives

The Central Role of Mortality in Human Existence

The awareness of our own mortality is unique to humans, shaping our quest for meaning throughout history. Our ancient ancestors sought immortality through grave goods and religious beliefs in an afterlife. Our consciousness of death drives us to make sense of it and grapple with the limitations of our existence.

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