Economist Podcasts The Intelligence: searching for the elixir of life
19 snips
Dec 22, 2023 
Max Norman, Culture correspondent for The Economist, joins the discussion on the quest for the elixir of life. He dives into the fascinating cultural significance of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas,' reflecting on how the poem has shaped holiday traditions since 1823. The conversation also explores cutting-edge research on aging and the ethical dilemmas surrounding lifespan extension. Listeners will find insights into how advertising strategies are evolving alongside societal shifts toward longevity and consumer preferences.
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Elixirs of Life
- Scientists believe that elixirs of life, capable of extending human lifespan, are possible.
- These elixirs would improve healthspan, not just lifespan, by targeting the aging process itself.
The Biology of Aging
- Aging is a trade-off between survival and reproduction; organisms prioritize reproduction.
- Diseases of old age arise from decreased evolutionary pressure on self-repair after peak reproductive age.
Paths to Longevity
- Calorie restriction mimics a proven method of prolonging animal life, offering a potential approach for humans.
- Another approach involves targeting senescent cells, which contribute to aging by releasing harmful chemicals.
