The first immortals are already living among us. You might be one of
them. At first glance, that arresting statement sounds as if it might
come from a science-fiction story. But it is an astonishing, exciting
fact--as explained clearly and cogently by Dr. Ben Bova.
In his distinguished career, Dr. Bova has predicted the discovery of
life on Mars, the space race of the 1960s, solar-powered satellites, the
discovery of organic chemicals in interstellar space, virtual reality,
the Strategic Defense Initiative, the advent of international
peacekeeping forces, the discovery of ice on the Moon, and electronic
book publishing. Now he explores the future effects of science and
technology on the human life span--and discovers that one day, death
will no longer be the inevitable end of life.
Dr. Bova guides listeners through worldwide research into the
biochemical processes that cause aging and death, and shows what
scientists are discovering about stopping, perhaps even reversing, these
processes.
According to Dr. Bova, if you have a normal life expectancy today, the
medical and biological advances that will be achieved over the next 10
to 20 years will probably allow you to live long past 100. The longer
you live, the more knowledge scientists will glean, and the further they
will be able to extend your life span.
With crystal-clear, utterly accessible prose, Dr. Bova explains how
science could maintain the youth and vigor of a 50-year-old
indefinitely, perhaps even reversing the effects of aging. He also
offers provocative thoughts on the tumultuous societal consequences of
such biomedical breakthroughs, as greatly extended life spans and
virtual immortality transform institutions like Medicare, Social
Security, pension plans, life insurance, even the very foundations of
work and retirement. Here is a compelling, startling, understandable,
and vitally important study of the greatest challenge--and the most
tantalizing opportunity--ever faced by humankind.
