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Ask HN: You're a Internet millionaire. Why aren't you supporting life extension?

2 points by sailormoon ↗ HN
This question is directed to all the exited founders who I know haunt this place. I would have thought that, having achieved immense financial success from your tech efforts, why you're not now interested in supporting research to extend your existence?

There are a number of organisations out there doing what I consider to be credible, useful research. SENS Foundation obviously springs to mind. As does Imminst.org. But these institutions are always strapped for funds, desperately seeking new donations even in the 4 or 5 figures. It always struck me that HN readers of means alone could easily meet those needs.

So - why aren't you donating? Is it a credibility issue? Do you doubt the science? Do you doubt the institutions? Do you not see sufficient ROI? I'm genuinely curious. Thanks.

2 comments

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chaosprophet
First off I am not a millionaire (yet). However, the concept of living on and on is something I view as scary, for reasons I do not wish to elaborate. I also believe that eighty years is more than sufficient time to live a life and accomplish all that I want to.

Also, rather than donate to a research which could possibly extend my lifetime, I would donate to organisations which are already enabling people to live better lives than they could otherwise. Personally, when I rise to a position where I can afford it, I would start sponsoring a kid's education every year. That gives me the satisfaction of knowing I am improving someone's life in some way.

janj
+1 for research improving quality of our current lifetime, especially in areas of great need.

Also, aren't you the least bit curious what happens after your expiration? Not that I think I'll be joining past friends up in the clouds playing a harp but absolute nothing is about impossible for me to imagine. In that sense it seems silly to pursue the goal of extending life when you could use that time/energy enjoying it and anticipating what comes next.