In this blog post, we will look at whether the possibility of immortality, which humanity has long dreamed of, is a blessing or a new challenge.
The dream of immortality and human aspirations: from ancient times to the present
Since humans began to harbor the desire for eternal life, that dream has not remained a mere legend or fantasy. The ancient Egyptians believed that the soul continued after death, leaving behind mummies and the Book of the Dead, which records the journey of the soul. In China, Qin Shi Huang relied on several alchemists to find the elixir of life during his lifetime, but he was ultimately unable to live forever as he had wished. This desire for immortality is deeply rooted in human nature. The reason why philosophers and scientists of all times have contemplated the meaning of death and life is also connected to this dream of immortality. They have been pondering what true immortality is, beyond simply living longer. This desire for immortality, which has persisted throughout history, continues even today, and modern science is treating it as a more specific and achievable goal.
Since ancient times, various religions and philosophical thoughts have proposed ways to achieve eternal life or explored its essential meaning. The Greek philosopher Plato believed that the human soul continues to survive after death and heads to another world, which was later transformed into the concept of eternal life in various religions. This idea developed into a quest to achieve immortality in this world, rather than simply the continuation of the soul after death. As a result, alchemy emerged, and philosophical thinking was linked to scientific experiments. The early alchemists wanted to go beyond simple metal transformation and unlock the secrets of human life, and they were focused on creating an elixir of immortality. As such, the dream of human immortality has been the subject of continuous exploration since the past, and it is entering a new phase with the development of modern science and technology.
The Challenges of Modern Science and the Possibility of Immortality
Interest in immortality is still high today. On the contrary, as science and technology have advanced dramatically, the possibility of immortality is no longer considered an illusion. As technologies that reverse or regenerate the aging process of human cells are being researched, concrete possibilities for life extension have begun to open up. For example, research is being actively conducted on the discovery of substances that delay the aging of cells, the extension of life through organ transplantation, and methods of blocking aging-related genes through genetic manipulation. Recent advances in biology and medicine have taken “anti-aging” beyond simply delaying aging and have reached the stage of practical research that can reverse the process altogether. In addition, biotechnology combined with artificial intelligence is handling life more precisely.
However, this raises an important question. If eternal life is possible, can we truly find happiness through such a life? The philosopher Epicurus did not define happiness simply as pleasure, but saw true happiness as avoiding pain and maintaining tranquility. According to his philosophy, if a human being who has gained the gift of eternal life is bound by endless competition and desire and repeats the cycle of suffering, eternal life can cause new suffering. Modern psychology also explains happiness as a concept of “subjective well-being,” and sees that a person’s happiness is not achieved simply by extending life. If longevity and eternal life become possible, the meaning and goal of life will be further deepened.
Ethical Issues and Social Changes in Eternal Life
In addition, we cannot ignore the social and ethical issues that may arise when eternal life becomes a reality. If only a small number of people can extend their lives, it is likely to lead to a concentration of wealth and power. If only the wealthy can use the latest life extension technology, social inequality will deepen. In addition, there may be problems of excessive population growth and resource shortages. If the current system in which human life naturally circulates is disrupted, the burden on the earth will also become heavier. Moreover, it is questionable whether humanity, which has become able to avoid death and live longer, will be able to live with the same value of life as it does now. When the life of an individual continues indefinitely, the tension and preciousness of life that death brings may disappear.
As extending life can raise ethical and social issues, a systematic discussion is needed to address them. As technologies related to extending life are developed, legal systems and ethical standards should be established together, and measures are needed to minimize social inequality. If eternal life is actually achieved, the question of how and to whom it will be granted will be a major point of contention.
The value of immortality and the meaning of human life
The dream of immortality goes beyond simply continuing life and touches on the ultimate question of how humans can live a better life. There is an ongoing debate about whether eternal life is a blessing or a curse for humans. Eternal life is not just about the continuation of life, but its meaning depends on whether it is possible to lead a valuable life. In a life without death, time is given infinitely, so the mindset of cherishing every moment or making choices without regret is likely to change. This means that the meaning and purpose of life must be redefined.
Ultimately, for human life, immortality is not simply about having endless life, but also about thinking about how to live a truly meaningful life. As technology continues to advance, humans are one step closer to the possibility of immortality. However, we need to seriously consider and discuss how we will take advantage of this possibility and whether we can wisely solve the various problems that immortality may bring. As immortality becomes a reality, human society will need to reflect more seriously on how to accept and change to this new way of life.
