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.
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.
The Prospects and Moral Implications of Life Extension
Today, there is a growing interest in life extension, with wealthy individuals investing billions of dollars in reversing the aging process. While extending lives to address age-related diseases is beneficial, the consequences of radical life extension need careful consideration. Challenges such as resource scarcity, population growth, and potential inequality must be addressed before embracing immortality.
Artificial Intelligence and the Philosophical Debate on Immortality
In addition to life extension technologies, the possibility of immortality through artificial intelligence is being explored. Digitizing the essence of our consciousness and transferring it to a computer raises philosophical questions about personal identity and the meaning of being alive. However, skeptics argue that transferring psychological data does not preserve the entirety of an individual's existence.
Stephen Sackur speaks to philosopher Stephen Cave, director of the University of Cambridge Institute for Technology and Humanity. He is at the centre of a growing debate about the merits of extending human longevity. Is it wise to seek to live forever?
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