Sean Carroll's Mindscape: Science, Society, Philosophy, Culture, Arts, and Ideas Holiday Message: Reflections on Immortality
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Dec 18, 2023 This holiday message dives into the intriguing concept of immortality, probing its allure and the potential drawbacks of eternal life. Philosophical and scientific discussions reveal the finite nature of existence and challenge traditional views on life. A workshop poll shows surprising reluctance towards living 10,000 years, prompting deep reflection on personal philosophies. The intricacies of entropy and cosmic complexity are explored, raising questions about humanity's role in the cycle of life and decay. It's a thought-provoking exploration of life, mortality, and what it means to truly exist.
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Macroscopic View of Identity
- Information contained within us persists, but doesn't mean immortality.
- We are macroscopic beings, defined by accessible information, with finite lifespans.
Quantum Immortality: Not You
- Quantum immortality offers little comfort: most versions of you die.
- Different versions of you on other branches are merely descendants, not you.
10,000 Years or Bust?
- At a Santa Fe Institute workshop, a majority didn't want a 10,000-year lifespan.
- Borges's "The Immortals" depicts immortals living unenjoyable lives as troglodytes.
