Challenging Mortality: A Dive into 'The Immortalists'

Exploring the Quest to Defy Aging

If you haven't heard of Bryan Johnson, you might recognize his image. The 48-year-old Californian, with his almost otherworldly appearance, is on a mission to conquer death. His attempts to achieve immortality include a controversial blood plasma transfusion from his then-17-year-old son, a procedure that garnered international media attention. In a twist of fate, Johnson also donated his plasma to his father. However, as documented in The Immortalists by Aleks Krotoski, this procedure was ultimately deemed unsuccessful. Thus, the tech entrepreneur must seek alternative methods to achieve eternal life.

A Global Movement Against Aging

Despite this setback, Johnson has become a prominent figure in the worldwide endeavor to defeat death, significantly extend human lifespan, and redefine aging as a disease rather than a natural aspect of life. Krotoski, a psychologist with extensive experience chronicling the tech sector, provides a compelling analysis of this movement. Her narrative shines particularly when examining the inherent contradictions and social implications that arise from these pursuits.

The Nadells: A Different Perspective

While Johnson is a well-known name, the story of Molly and Kris Nadell presents a stark contrast. In their 40s, the Nadells live in an RV, struggling to make ends meet while raising their two children. To support their family, they often turn to plasma donation, earning between $30 and $70 per session, sometimes donating twice a week. In a twist of irony, aging poses a significant challenge for them as well. Krotoski notes, "The older you get, the less demand for your plasma ... Kris and Molly are in their mid-forties. Their pay-per-litre is already going down." This stark reality highlights the dual nature of aging: it is a battle for both the wealthy and the struggling.

Critique of the Life-Extension Movement

Krotoski approaches the life-extension enthusiasts with a healthy dose of skepticism. Many of these individuals hail from technology backgrounds rather than the medical field, and some exhibit what can appear to be a cult-like devotion to their beliefs. Johnson's daily regimen, for example, consists of over 150 supplements and meals that many would find unappetizing, resembling more the remnants of a baby's diaper than a nutritious diet. Rather than overtly judging these figures, Krotoski allows the narrative to unfold, letting readers determine who possesses credibility and who should be disregarded.

Structure and Flow of the Book

While The Immortalists contains valuable insights, it is not without its shortcomings. Krotoski tackles numerous topics within a single narrative, which can lead to a disjointed reading experience, akin to being pulled erratically from one subject to another. Some chapters are rich, character-driven explorations, while others present dense, data-laden exposition that may feel overwhelming. Readers who are familiar with Krotoski's 2023 BBC series on the topic may find parts of the book to be repetitive.

A Notable Absence

In a work that is otherwise attuned to the societal implications of the actions of the individuals it discusses, it is surprising that Krotoski does not address the allegations made against Johnson by his former fiancée. In 2021, she filed a lawsuit claiming emotional distress, which remains a significant aspect of his narrative yet is notably absent from this exploration.

Conclusion: The Complexities of Immortality

The Immortalists by Aleks Krotoski presents a nuanced examination of the modern obsession with defying mortality. Through the stories of individuals like Bryan Johnson and the Nadells, Krotoski engages with the broader implications of this quest, highlighting the contradictions and personal sacrifices involved in the pursuit of eternal life. The book serves as both a reflection on the human condition and a critique of the lengths to which some will go to evade the inevitable reality of death.