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Student Corner

Is it Appropriate to Survive Forever?

Written by: Rushka Sapkota - 29024, Grade VII

Posted on: 19 January, 2024

In my opinion, this would definitely be a curse. At first look, eternal life once thought to be an impossible dream might appear appealing because it offers the possibility of living beyond the limitations of mortality. Nevertheless, further research reveals that the official finding that provides perpetual life may be viewed as a cruel curse as opposed to a blessing. This viewpoint explores the nature of human life and the structures of society, as well as the complex network of ethical, social, and existential issues that such an everlasting existence would bring. The prospect of everlasting existence seems appealing, with its boundless prospects for growth, discovery, and ambition. But it harms society as a whole, well beyond the realm of the individual. Without the fundamental drives and aspirations that mortality offers, eternal life might send mankind into a never-ending condition of decline. The fleeting nature of life frequently catalyzes achievement, inspiring people to grasp the present, pursue their objectives, and leave a lasting legacy. After eternity is assured, there is less of a need for success, creativity, and advancement, and existence might become a boring cycle with no purpose or direction. 


 

Furthermore, there is an unimaginable mental cost associated with everlasting life. Human experiences, goals, viewpoints, and awareness of life's fragility are all shaped by the passage of time.  Being immortal may cause us to experience the loss of loved ones constantly, which can create a never-ending pit of sadness, isolation, and existential misery. Deep mental suffering and emotional destruction might result from human emotions and coping strategies designed for a limited existence collapsing under the weight of an infinite one. In the process of achieving eternal life, social factors play a crucial role. The already dangerous problem of overpopulation will become deadly. There will be a record level of demand placed on limited resources including food, water, and habitat, which might result in war, societal instability, and ethical issues with the sharing of resources. A society's power structure can shift significantly when firmly established elites continue to rule, preventing advancement, creativity, and social fairness. In addition, we are eager to get things done when we know we only have a little window of time! We work really hard and enjoy ourselves greatly while accomplishing things. That same thrill, though, might not be felt if we knew we had forever. We might not have the same sense of need to learn new things and hence life would become less remarkable.  


 

Moreover, the idea of perpetual life challenges humanity's moral and ethical underpinnings. The passing of life sets boundaries for conduct, directs choices, and cultivates Concepts like fairness, responsibility, and consequences that can become meaningless in an everlasting state, which could shake up the foundation of societal norms and values. What about the chance that immortality might result in a lack of drive, innovation, and social advancement? In a future where everyone lives forever, have you considered how population growth and scarce resources can cause conflict and social chaos? If someone claims that having an everlasting life would be a gift since it presents countless opportunities for development and learning, how would you respond to them? 


 

Furthermore, not everyone would have access to the immortality formula even if it were to be discovered. The wealthy and powerful would have the means to acquire the formula, leaving the underprivileged to suffer and perish in silence. This can cause the social and economic divide in society to widen even farther. In summary, an unsettling web of possibilities is revealed by the discovery of a formula that offers perpetual life. It threatens to strip mankind of its moral underpinnings, creativity, and purpose, even beyond its first attraction. Eternal life is not presented as a solution to psychological pain, societal disruption, or moral decay. 


 

Thus, although eternal life may seem like a great idea, it may also provide a number of challenges. Sometimes life is more thrilling and special when there are limitations, such as those related to time. For this reason, although it may seem wonderful, living forever may not be as enjoyable as it first appears.