Inquiry Into Which Area of the Life Extension Debate is Most Effective in Changing Attitudes Towards it Among 16 to 17 Year-Olds

Abstract

Existing research extension has yielded varying results about whether the public’s attitudes towards life extension are positive or negative. Such differences could be accounted for by factors such as general attitudes towards developments in science and technology and exposure to fiction (such as books or movies) which generally portray life extension in an unfavorable light. This study revealed that, at least among 16 to 17 year-old High School Juniors, there was a correlation between a favorable orientation towards scientific and technological developments and positive attitudes towards life extension. Additionally, participants who had witnessed representation of life extension in fiction were less likely to hold positive attitudes towards it. The specification of the physical state in which people would live an extended lifespan in was also found to be significant in forming attitudes towards life extension. The main positive arguments about life extension were cited to be having more time, being able to be with loved ones longer, and it being beneficial towards society and humanity. However, the most significant negative arguments were that overpopulation would become a severe issue, outliving loved ones would be distressing, and abuse of power. In an attempt to change attitudes towards life extension from negative to positive, a 15-minute presentation about either the social and personal, ethical, or scientific aspect was generally ineffective in doing so. However, out of the favorable change that did occur, the presentation on the scientific feasibility of life extension was found to be the most effective.