Recent research has brought attention to the intriguing practice of cryonics, particularly following the preservation of the brain of L. Stephen Coles, a gerontologist who passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2014. Prior to his death, Coles made the decision to have his brain cryogenically preserved at a facility in Arizona, where it is currently maintained at a chilling −146 °C. His close associate, Greg Fahy, a prominent cryobiologist, has since been studying the preserved brain tissue, noting that it remains remarkably intact, even though the prospect of reanimating Coles remains highly unlikely.
The history of cryonics dates back to 1967 with the case of James Hiram Bedford, a psychology professor who became the first person to undergo this process after succumbing to kidney cancer. His body was treated with cryoprotective agents to prevent ice formation and is currently held at the Alcor facility in Scottsdale, Arizona. The underlying rationale for undergoing cryonics often hinges on the belief in future medical advancements that could potentially cure ailments like cancer, which are currently fatal. This notion resonates with individuals who are reluctant to accept death, as evidenced by gatherings such as Vitalist Bay, where enthusiasts advocate for the potential of science to eventually overcome aging and death itself.
Despite its appeal, the cryonics industry remains niche, with only about 5,000 to 6,000 individuals having signed up worldwide for cryopreservation. Cost is a significant barrier, as Alcor charges approximately $80,000 for brain storage and around $220,000 for full body preservation. Many individuals opt for life insurance to cover these expenses. The philosophical implications of reanimation also pose questions for potential candidates, as experts like Shannon Tessier highlight concerns about being revived in a future drastically different from today. While the hope of future revival persists among advocates, the scientific community largely agrees that the feasibility of successfully bringing back preserved individuals remains minimal, making the choice of cryonics a complex intersection of hope, ethics, and scientific uncertainty.
Source: Here’s why some people choose cryonics to store their bodies and brains after death via MIT Technology Review