Why Smart People Choose Cryonics: Exploring the Rational and Emotional Motivations

When the question is posed, “Why do smart people sign up for cryonics?” it creates a fascinating discussion. Some might argue that 'smart' is an acronym for 'Some Men Are Truly Thick,' making the question humorous. However, there are indeed serious and rational reasons behind this choice that go beyond mere amusement.

Reasons for Choosing Cryonics

For many smart individuals, cryonics offers a compelling set of benefits:

Opportunity for Future Experiments and Advancements: Cryonics presents an avenue for scientists and companies to conduct cutting-edge research and improve techniques. By cryonically preserving human bodies, these entities can: Test new resuscitation methods. Develop advanced biotechnological and medical treatments. Stimulate innovation in the field of cryobiology.

Carrying this potential forward opens a path for humanity to reach new heights in medical science.

User Related Benefits and Implications

Signed up smart people also have personal reasons:

Multigenerational Interactions: To have the chance to reconnect with great-great-great-grandchildren and enjoy the experience of watching the future unfold. This gives a sense of continuity and legacy. Financial Incentives: An opportunity to spend money that might otherwise go to other endeavors, potentially creating positive long-term financial impact. Ethical Considerations: The allure of playing a role in the future, experiencing emerging technologies and changes in society. There's a compulsion to witness and potentially influence the passage of time.

The Complexity of Cryonics

Freezing the brain is often seen as a simpler and more feasible approach than storing a full genome to 3D print a body or use other advanced biotechnologies. However, raising the ethical question of personhood remains a significant hurdle.

Speculations about the future of life extension and revival raise philosophical and ethical questions:

Immortality vs. Extinction: Life extension could mean living for extended periods, but being revived 4000 years in the future would bring unique challenges. Memories and personal identity might be lost, leading to a different perspective on being and living. Misinterpretation and Loss of Identity: Being remembered but in a distorted or misinterpreted manner could lead to a sense of self that is fundamentally different from who one once was. The passage of time might make one feel like a primitive figure.

These considerations highlight the complexity of the issues surrounding cryonics and what it could mean for personal and societal identity.

Anticipated Future Possibilities

For the ultra-wealthy, the concept of cryonics might seem less fantastical. Consider the potential scenario in 50 years:

The climate crisis has led to the Antarctic becoming the last habitable continent, with deserts and barren mountains surrounding it. Marine life is extinct, and all means of transportation have stopped functioning. No news, radio, TV, or computers exist, and living conditions are harsh.

Reviving from cryonics in such a world would bring intense challenges, including:

No foundational infrastructure in place, leading to a struggle to adjust to basic needs. No recognizable society, making it difficult to connect with others.

These scenarios underscore the multifaceted nature of choosing cryonics and the potential for drastic, unforeseen changes in the future.