In recent years, a growing faction within the longevity community has emerged, arguing that death is humanity’s most pressing issue. This movement, called Vitalism, posits that mortality is fundamentally unjust and should be addressed through innovative scientific breakthroughs and advocacy for policy reform. Founded by Adam Gries and Nathan Cheng, Vitalism aims to not only advance research on aging but also to mobilize public support and influence legislation that would facilitate access to experimental treatments.
Vitalism was launched at Zuzalu, an event in Montenegro that brought together enthusiasts eager to explore life extension technologies. Gries and Cheng, both passionate about extending human lifespan, have been instrumental in rallying support for their cause. Their journey has led them to various international venues, from longevity gatherings in Switzerland and Honduras to meetings in Washington, D.C., where they presented their case for legislative change to influential politicians, including those in leadership roles at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
The current landscape indicates a significant shift towards the acceptance of longevity as a vital area for research and investment. With a surge in longevity clinics and a plethora of documentaries highlighting advancements in this field, the movement is gaining traction. Recent appointments, such as Jim O’Neill as deputy secretary of health and human services, signal a more favorable political climate for longevity-focused initiatives. Conversations with key figures like Alicia Jackson, director of ARPA-H, reveal a growing governmental interest in funding biomedical research aimed at extending healthy life years. As support from powerful stakeholders increases, there is optimism that the field of longevity may be on the brink of groundbreaking advancements, making it an exciting area to watch.
Source: How the sometimes-weird world of lifespan extension is gaining influence via MIT Technology Review