Bryan Johnson, a prominent figure in the field of longevity and anti-aging research, has embarked on an ambitious journey to extend human lifespan through groundbreaking scientific endeavors. A Silicon Valley entrepreneur, Johnson has invested heavily in biotech companies, such as Conception, which is attempting to create human egg cells from stem cells, and Orchid, which is involved in his personal blood plasma exchanges. His unique approach to health optimization includes radical measures such as these plasma exchanges with his 17-year-old son, whom he refers to as his "blood boy," and taking approximately 100 supplements daily.
Johnson's pursuit of eternal youth has led him to claim success in rejuvenating certain physical attributes, notably increasing the duration of his nighttime erections. He asserts this regimen has given him the vitality of a man 15 years younger. His efforts are not just personal but part of a broader cultural movement within Silicon Valley, where the quest for longevity is a fervent obsession.
The tech industry has long been interested in anti-aging research. Google initiated its involvement in 2013 with the secretive project Calico, known as the "Bell Labs of aging research," though it reportedly achieved limited progress. Additionally, Google established Verily, aimed at enhancing the understanding and detection of diseases. Johnson's ventures align with these broader industry trends but are distinguished by their intensely personal nature.
Having penned a book titled "Don't Die," Johnson shares his philosophy and lifestyle through unconventional videos detailing his diet and blood plasma exchanges. He remains an open book about his life journey, discussing his Mormon upbringing and the founding of Braintree, a payments processing company. His overarching goal is encapsulated in his own words:
"Don't die, don't kill each other, don't ruin our biosphere, don't ruin planet Earth, and don't underestimate aligning with AI." – Bryan Johnson
Johnson's vision extends beyond individual longevity; he advocates for a future where humans and artificial intelligence cooperate to foster a better world. His belief in aligning with AI reflects a broader trend among futurists who see technological integration as essential for survival and advancement.
While Johnson's practices may seem extreme to some, they are emblematic of a growing subculture within Silicon Valley focused on health optimization. This culture is characterized by an intense commitment to pushing the boundaries of human potential and challenging the inevitability of aging.
Michael Calore, a commentator on this phenomenon, describes the paradox faced by those who submit to such rigorous health regimens:
"I am an autonomous human being in the world, which is weird because you are accepting … By saying yes to that question by saying, 'Yes, I'm surrendering to this algorithm that is going to optimize me,' you are basically reducing your ego in order to do so. Whereas if you are saying, 'No, I want to make my own decisions. I want to be autonomous,' then you are expressing your ego. Your ego is expanding to fill that." – Michael Calore
Johnson's endeavors also resonate with notions of legacy and lineage, as articulated by Zoë Schiffer:
"It's like if you yourself can't live forever, then certainly your bloodline must live on." – Zoë Schiffer
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