Tom Ross

[Note from Tom Ross: I was inspired to write this article after a post circulated on X stated that, ‘Sadly, it seems like potential candidates for the 2024 US Transhumanist Party elections, Tom Ross and Daniel Twedt, are not really interested in the topic of life extension too much…’ It’s true that Radical Life Extension isn’t what brought me to the movement or the Party. It was the USTP Constitution, which has sections that speak directly to my cause: fighting child exploitation. When it comes to living longer, I feel my take is rational because if we do conquer death, we need to consider all the cultural, institutional, and economic effects that it will have. Whenever I post about these considerations, my Friends List drops dramatically and that’s because I am poking at our survival instinct. September is Suicide Prevention Month, and I felt it important to share this article on the USTP site. We need to be mindful of some of the negative repercussions Radical Life Extension will have. The suicide rate in America is on the rise, especially among young people, and much of that is due to economic worries. So, as we seek to kill death, let’s make sure there are as few collateral damages as possible.]

RADICAL LIFE SUBTRACTION
Navigating An Uncomfortable Discourse

In an age where social media has become a global forum for ideas and discussions, it’s no surprise that certain topics elicit strong reactions from people. One such subject is the notion of “radical life extension” and “voluntary population control.” While these topics might seem intellectually stimulating, they often stir up a storm of emotions and vitriolic comments from individuals who are caught in the crossfire of their embedded survival instincts and value systems.

The Unsettling Nature of Radical Life Extension Discussions

The concept of living longer is intriguing and has captured human imagination for centuries. However, the idea of radical life extension, where human lifespans significantly exceed the current norm, raises a host of sociological, ecological, and economic concerns. The mere suggestion of these concerns can trigger intense reactions, causing some to unfriend, lash out, or vehemently disagree with those who dare to bring them up.

Interestingly, this reaction might not necessarily stem from a fear of living longer but from a primal instinct to protect the status quo. Humans are wired to resist change when it disrupts familiar patterns, as such changes historically carried the risk of endangering survival. Hence, rational questioning of radical life extension could be interpreted by some as a threat to their way of life, inadvertently pushing their emotional buttons.

Anthropocentrism: A Looming Existential Threat

At the core of this complex issue lies anthropocentrism, the belief that humans are the central and most important entities in the universe. This perspective has fueled the trajectory of modern society, often at the expense of the environment and long-term sustainability. The fear of relinquishing our dominant position in the natural order exacerbates the friction surrounding discussions about the impacts of radical life extension.

Our planet is finite, and its resources are depleting at an alarming rate due to the anthropocentric drive for short-term satisfaction. This tendency to prioritize immediate gains over long-term consequences poses a significant existential threat. Addressing this challenge requires us to question the egocentrism and narcissism that have emerged as coping mechanisms in the face of fear and trauma.

Confronting Fear and Embracing Responsibility

Humanity’s response to the potential ramifications of radical life extension reflects a collective temper tantrum driven by the fear of the unknown. This tantrum manifests in the desire to acquire everything without accounting for the consequences. But it’s crucial to recognize that this behavior is born from a place of vulnerability and insecurity.

If we are to navigate the complex terrain of extending human lifespans while preserving the environment and societal stability, we must embrace responsibility. Initiating constructive conversations about the topic requires acknowledging these deep-seated fears and anxieties, and understanding that people’s reactions are often a defense mechanism rather than a well-reasoned response.

Considerations for a Longer Lifespan

Even if we were to extend human lifespans by a mere 20 years, the implications would be significant. From a societal standpoint, the working landscape would transform, affecting retirement, education, and job structures. Economic institutions would need to adapt to a changing demographic, and ecological considerations would become even more pronounced.

Balancing this potential future requires a multidisciplinary approach that considers sociology, psychology, economics, and environmental science. The inclusion of diverse perspectives can help us map out the implications of radical life extension comprehensively. Additionally, fostering a shift away from anthropocentrism towards a more holistic perspective on our place in the ecosystem is essential to ensure a sustainable coexistence with our planet.

Radical Life Subtraction

The potential impact of radical life extension on suicide rates involves numerous social, psychological, and ethical considerations. Radical life extension could potentially have negative effects on suicide rates, depending on how it is implemented and how individuals perceive and adapt to such a change.

Here are some factors to consider:

1. Existential and Psychological Challenges: Radical life extension could introduce new challenges related to existential questions, societal pressures, and changes in personal relationships. Individuals may struggle with questions about the meaning and purpose of life when faced with the prospect of living for centuries. Social isolation, loneliness, and changes in family dynamics could also pose challenges, potentially increasing suicide risk.
2. Resource Allocation: The ethical and practical implications of providing access to radical life extension technologies could lead to debates about resource allocation. If these technologies are expensive or limited in availability, there could be social disparities in access, potentially exacerbating feelings of inequality or hopelessness among certain groups.
3. Psychosocial Support: The availability of mental health support and counseling services will be crucial in helping individuals navigate the psychological and emotional challenges associated with radical life extension. Adequate support systems can mitigate suicide risk.

The impact of radical life extension on suicide rates is uncertain and would depend on various factors, including how society adapts to this possibility, the availability of psychological support, and the ethical considerations surrounding its implementation. It is essential to approach this topic with careful consideration of its complex implications for individuals and society as a whole. Research and ethical deliberation will be essential as discussions about radical life extension continue to evolve.

Conclusion

Engaging in discussions about radical life extension and voluntary population control is a daunting task, given the emotional undercurrents that these topics provoke. However, addressing these subjects is necessary for our collective growth and survival. By understanding the origins of our reactions, confronting our fears, and reevaluating our anthropocentric tendencies, we can foster a more nuanced dialogue that accounts for the sociological, ecological, and economic impacts of extending human lifespans. It’s a call to embrace our responsibility as stewards of both our species and our planet, transcending the limitations of egocentrism and paving the way for a sustainable future.

The impact of radical life extension on suicide rates is uncertain and would depend on various factors, including how society adapts to this possibility, the availability of psychological support, and the ethical considerations surrounding its implementation. It is essential to approach this topic with careful consideration of its complex implications for individuals and society as a whole. Research and ethical deliberation will be essential as discussions about radical life extension continue to evolve.

Tom Ross is the U.S. Transhumanist Party’s 2024 candidate for President of the United States. He is also the USTP’s Director of Sentient Rights Advocacy.

Learn more here: TomRoss’24.