Science is often considered the ultimate proof of truth—a seemingly objective force that reveals the mechanisms of reality. However, what we fail to recognize is that science, much like mythology, is built upon foundational narratives that shape our understanding of the world. I remember back during my Mythology lectures, I had come across this book Science and Myth: The Hidden Connection by Wolfgang Smith, where he argues that myths are not evidence of primitive thought but are intrinsic to human consciousness. Science itself, he suggests, operates within its own mythical paradigms—scientific myths that influence our perception of progress and knowledge. One such myth, gaining widespread attention, is the belief that “Death is a disease”, an idea given by Dr. David Sinclair, a Harvard geneticist known for his research on longevity. This belief, while primarily rooted in scientific progress, asks us to examine our deepest fears and aspirations, and to consider the ethical and philosophical implications of our relentless pursuit of extended life.
The concept of ‘death as a disease’ carries the idea of humanity’s enduring quest for immortality, a pursuit vividly illustrated by the alchemical traditions of antiquity and the medieval era. Alchemists, driven by the ambition to change base metals to gold and achieve eternal life, managed to bring foundational groundwork for modern chemistry. Yet, their underlying premise—that physical transformation can overcome mortality remain an influence on contemporary scientific endeavors. The present focus on genetic manipulation and cellular rejuvenation, while rooted in empirical investigation, inherits this age-old human aspiration to go beyond natural limitations.
This idea that aging is a curable condition has manipulated many, but it raises fundamental ethical and philosophical concerns. The quest for extended youth is not just a scientific endeavor—it is deeply merged with societal constructs of beauty, consumerism, and the fear of getting old. The recent discussion between Nikhil Kamath and Bryan Johnson on Kamath’s podcast highlighted the extreme lengths to which some are willing to go in order to slow down aging. Bryan Johnson, a tech entrepreneur and self-proclaimed longevity pioneer, has spent millions on a rigorous anti-aging regimen, measuring every aspect of his biology in an attempt to reverse time. However, it can be argued that such an approach reflects an unhealthy obsession with control and an underlying fear of mortality rather than a genuine pursuit of health. During the discussion, Kamath abruptly left the show, mentioning unbearable air quality as the primary reason. However, poor air quality is just a symptom, not the disease itself. The real issue lies in deep-rooted economic inequity. A large, unskilled, and religiously excitable population cannot prioritize clean air when struggling for food. Unplanned heavy construction across urban cities, particularly along Mumbai’s seaface, is rapidly transforming the landscape. There is low motivation and awareness to follow LEED regulations for green buildings, despite their long-term monetary and planetary benefits. The blind race to build, sell, and earn has led to reckless construction practices with little regard for environmental consequences and poor AQI for all the city dwellers.
The obsession with quantifiable biological metrics, as seen in Bryan Johnson’s regimen, also reflects a broader societal trend toward hyper-rationalization. This approach, while seemingly objective, can ignore the subjective experience of aging, which includes wisdom, emotional depth, and social connection. As the philosopher Henri Bergson argued in ‘Creative Evolution,’ that “Life is not merely a series of measurable processes but a continuous flow of duration, a ‘durée’ that resists quantification.” By reducing aging to a set of data points, we risk losing sight of its inherent value as a natural aspect of existence.
The anti-aging industry has developed into a multi-billion-dollar enterprise, preying on societal anxieties about aging. It is not just the medical industry but also the fashion and beauty industries that have contributed to this obsession, pushing the narrative that youthfulness means everything. These ideals have not been shaken off, so getting older is becoming a subconscious prejudice. The belief that being older means being incapable has been fostered into the collective mindset. It’s no longer about getting old; it’s about getting useless.
Despite the long history of anti-aging practices, the industry has become more aggressive in recent decades. In 2002, Botox was approved as a cosmetic treatment, and its immediate success signaled the beginning of a new era of aesthetic medicine. Since then, trends in anti-aging have evolved at a rapid pace, driven by celebrity endorsements and social media influencers. The rise of “Get Ready With Me” (GRWM) videos and product showcases on platforms like TikTok and Instagram have further normalized overconsumption, fueling the desire to maintain an artificially youthful appearance. These trends are not just about self-care; they are about buying into the fear of aging, a fear that the beauty industry has exploited for profit. There is a race by billionaires, celebrities and pharma companies to conquer death as people are willing to go to any lengths and try anything for a longer life.
The commodification of aging is dangerous. “The narrative that age is decline, age is burden, hurts everyone: individuals, families, communities, and society,” said Nancy Morrow-Howell, PhD, a professor of social policy and gerontology expert at Washington University in St. Louis. The constant push for youthfulness perpetuates the idea that older individuals have little to contribute, reinforcing stereotypes that ultimately harm both individuals and society at large.
Furthermore, the medicalization of aging shifts the focus from holistic well-being to an unrealistic goal of indefinite youth. While scientific advancements have undoubtedly improved health and longevity, the pursuit of eternal youth raises ethical questions. When does the pursuit of longevity cross the line into self-destructive obsession? Bryan Johnson’s extreme regimen, which includes blood transfusions from his teenage son, defines how the desire to escape aging can become unmoored from reason.
Moreover, the emphasis on longevity distracts from the basic medical issues. The resources and attention devoted to anti-aging treatments could be redirected toward improving the quality of life for aging populations rather than merely extending lifespan. Instead of stigmatizing aging as a problem to be solved, society should focus on fostering environments that support older individuals in meaningful ways.
Ultimately, the fear of aging is a reflection of a deeper fear: the loss of control. Time is an unrelenting force, indifferent to human attempts. No face mask, no supplement, no high-tech procedure can change this reality. The anti-aging industry thrives on its agenda under the guise of self-care and wellness. But true self-care lies in acceptance—in understanding that aging is not a disease but a natural part of life, one that should be embraced rather than feared.
Dismantling the anti-aging myth requires challenging the industries that profit from it and reevaluating our own perspectives on aging. It’s not about criticizing those who choose to engage in beauty routines or longevity practices but about questioning the underlying motivations. Are we seeking health and well-being, or are we succumbing to a fabricated fear that aging equates to being useless? The answer lies not in chasing eternal youth but in reshaping the narrative—one that values wisdom, experience, and the full spectrum of human existence.
The concept of ‘memento mori,’ a Latin phrase meaning ‘remember you must die,’ was a common theme in medieval and Renaissance art and literature. This reminder of mortality served not to incorporate fear but to encourage a life lived with purpose and meaning. By confronting our own mortality, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the present moment and cultivate a sense of gratitude for the time we have. This acceptance is not passive resignation but an active engagement with the present moment, a recognition that true vitality lies in living fully, regardless of age.
