RE: On the anti-ageing movement...

I think we've come a long way and we're getting closer to the time when people typically live past 120. Bryan Johnson is one example of what can be achieved today, but there are others. He is spending his own money, and maybe in more helpful ways for humans in general than many other rich folks. He tells everyone what he is doing and taking, free of charge. He does sell a line of "Blueprint" products but one could fashion their own program and buy their own foods if they want to do it that way.

The pace of innovation in this area is increasing, as it is in many others, due to AI. For example, protein folding computations are done millions of times faster now than in recent decades which allows better research and modelling of what novel molecules can do for human cells. Also entire human cells and at some point complete organs and biological systems may be able to be simulated by AI making testing faster than current human trials for testing all kinds of potential health breakthroughs.

The benefits for society will be lower healthcare costs often paid for by government programs. If older folks stay healthy for longer, the really expensive to treat end of life issues as well as the cost of nursing homes often paid for by government funds may decrease.

In addition, older folks have a lifetime of experience and knowledge. I think they are a big asset to humanity and if they're able to function well and stay active in the world, I think in general this will be a net positive.

The idea that it will stay expensive to purchase all the things you will need to achieve a longer healthier life, and will be available to only rich folks is not something I foresee. There is a history of things that were once expensive and limited in availability to the rich which are now available to almost everyone. We can think back to indoor plumbing, running water, electricity. But more recently, I think about computers, cell phones, and internet access with all that brings.

Just some of my thoughts, inspired by your well written article on anti-ageing. Thanks for opening this conversation with your post! :)