Human existence and its temporal limits are central themes of western culture. In addition to discussing fundamental metaphysical questions (what distinguishes a living from a dead thing?) and ethical questions (what status does a human embryo have?), this book examines questions surrounding the possibility of radically extending one's life through new a anti-aging therapies. Does adding years to one's life make one happier?

Marcel Weber, Universität Konstanz und Sebastian Knell, Universität Basel, Schweiz.