Imagine that sometime in the future we can achieve immortality. Should humans become immortal? This debate will discuss the reasons why (pro), humans should take advantage of becoming immortal, or, why not (con).
CRISPR-Cas9, a tool that allows geneticists to edit certain parts of a genome by removing or editing section in the DNA sequence, is causing quite a buzz in the research world. Human gene editing could be the key to advancing towards immortality. But even so, is this grounds for humans to do so?
Immortality in this discussion means the ability to live a natural, youthful life that is void of physical deterioration or artificial life assistance forever. This means that humans will remain in the same physical conditions they were when they became immortal.
Humans would still need the basic essentials to survive, like food and water. However, one’s life can be ended prematurely through tragedy or suicide if one chooses. The scope of immortality in this discussion thus does not mean completely indestructible, just that death does not naturally occur (e.g getting old and dying).
Note: It could also be that we need food and water to thrive and will become vegetative if starved (until nourished again). You can die if critical organs (e.g. heart) or body parts (e.g. head) are removed for extended period of time (body too slow to repair).