The Quest for Immortality: Science at the Frontiers of Aging

A book that takes a sceptical view of the hype surrounding the life extension industry. The authors do not expect the human life span to increase much beyond 85 years during this century, which means that the dramatic phase of extension has already occurred. They are right to warn against exaggerated claims but they display an overall hostility towards complementary medicine and its philosophy. They are surely right to stress the importance of quality over length of life and they do provide their own prescription for the 21st century while urging readers not to confuse becoming healthier with growing younger. Readers will not be surprised by their advice (it includes a daily massage) but applying it is harder, as we all know. One recommendation is a restful sleep, so I will take my cue to finish this piece now and go to bed!