Which branches of the sciences are pursuing immortality?

Question

Sorry if I phrased that a bit wrong. I've just finished reading Ray Kurzweil's 'Fantastic Voyage'. I have no idea whether the science behind it is accurate or not, but I was wondering which sciences are trying to make us all immortal? All of them, or just a few? Also, I have the impression that the scientific community looks at these scientists as crackpots. Is this true?

Answer 1

If you're asking about the immortality of the human spirit, that's beyond the realm of science; read the Bible.

If you're asking about longevity, the most direct is longevity research, aging research, and geriatrics.

The most promising recent research has been learning a lot about the genetic mechanisms for aging and death.  Small genetic modifications have greatly increased the lifespan of laboratory animals.  The best part is the likelihood of increasing not just lifespan, but healthy lifespan.  Of course, the hard part will still be getting people to stop making stupid choices like tobacco, drugs, voluntary obesity, nutrient-free foods, and sedentary lifestyles.

Answer 2

Medical (gene therapy) .. there is a LOT of work going on

Answer 3

Every branch of medicine surely would be considered working to extend people's lifetimes.

I would also include those who make electronic prosthesis. Some prosthetic devices seem to come close to making people into cyborgs.

The cryogenics industry is not actually trying make people live longer so much as just freezing them so someone else in the future can cure them.

As far as immortality, living forever?

I haven't heard of any claims in that direction.

Answer 4

Cryogenics (not sure on the spelling)