Existentialism and the Desirability of Immortality

This book explores the arguments of existential thinkers to determine if immortal life could be worth living. It introduces new insights into the debate on the desirability of immortality, addressing issues such as boredom, personal identity, technological progress, and the meaning of life. By drawing connections between existentialists and their overarching argument, the book offers valuable contributions to the philosophy of death and the history of existentialism.

Format: Hardback
Length: 178 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Immortality, a captivating concept that has fascinated philosophers throughout history, remains a topic of profound contemplation. While many thinkers have explored its potential, few have delved into the question of whether it would be truly worthwhile. In recent years, the discourse on immortality has been dominated by transhumanists, driven by their quest for radical life extension. On the other hand, philosophers from the analytic tradition have engaged in spirited discussions about the dangers inherent in immortality.

This book seeks to rectify this imbalance by presenting a compelling case that continental thinkers, including renowned figures such as Søren Kierkegaard, Friedrich Nietzsche, Miguel de Unamuno, Martin Heidegger, Jean-Paul Sartre, Albert Camus, and Simone de Beauvoir, have a wealth of insights to offer in the debate on immortality. These thinkers, often referred to as existentialists, approached the subject from unique perspectives, challenging traditional notions and offering fresh perspectives.

One of the central arguments put forth by the author is that an unending life does not necessarily preclude the preservation of personal identity. Many existentialists believed that the essence of human existence lies in the continuous development and transformation of the self. They saw immortality as an opportunity for individuals to embark on a never-ending journey of self-discovery and growth. By embracing the possibility of immortality, individuals could transcend the limitations of their finite existence and explore the depths of their being.

Furthermore, the author draws connections between these existentialists and demonstrates how they contribute to an overarching argument about the desirability of immortality. They argue that an unending life would not only provide individuals with the freedom to pursue their passions and desires without constraints but also present them with the challenge of maintaining ordinary human values and avoiding boredom. The existentialists recognized that the pursuit of pleasure and the accumulation of wealth may lose their allure over time, and they sought to find meaning and purpose in life that transcended the temporal realm.

In conclusion, Immortality and the Desirability of Immortality offers a thought-provoking exploration of the complex relationship between existentialism and immortality. By presenting the insights of continental thinkers and challenging traditional perspectives, the book provides a fresh perspective on this perennial topic. It will be of interest to researchers and advanced students working on the philosophy of death and the history of existentialism, as well as anyone who seeks to deepen their understanding of the human condition and the possibilities of a limitless existence.

Weight: 520g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032247977