#729 - Alex O'Connor - Are People Becoming Less Moral?
Modern Wisdom
Death Denialism Masquerading as Optimization
Many aspects of modern life, such as the productivity movement, health and fitness trends, and dietary debates, are essentially forms of death denialism. People engage in vigorous discussions and pursuits related to productivity, diet, and health in a subconscious effort to gain control over the uncertainty of life and death. This pursuit of certainty and longevity is also evident in the variety of health and fitness metrics and the constant search for the most effective approach to living longer. The speaker suggests that a significant portion of the health and fitness industry revolves around this fear of mortality, often disguised as the pursuit of physical improvement. They emphasize the need for a more nihilistic approach in the health and wellness sphere that considers the intrinsic value of life and questions the ethics of pursuing longevity. Ultimately, the speaker challenges the traditional notions of health and ethics by raising thought-provoking questions about the true implications of different lifestyle choices on societal burden and individual well-being.
