09.06.15 - Why I hope to die at 75

We are living longer than ever in industrialized societies. Indeed as a result of science and medical progress, people can expect to live into their 80s and even 90s. At the turn of the previous century, the average life span was around 47 years.

Many people welcome the idea of living as long as possible, watching their grandchildren and great-grandchildren growing up. Prof. Ezekiel Emanuel does not share this enthusiasm.

Invited by the Institute of Ethic History and Humanities of the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Geneva, prof Emanuel, chair of medical ethics and health policy at the University of Pennsylvania will present his position on this quest for longevity

In an essay published in the October issue of The Atlantic magazine, Ezekiel Emanuel stated that he hopes to die at 75. For Dr. Emanuel, long life does not necessarily equate to quality of life.

Yet Dr. Emanuel makes it clear that he is not arguing for euthanasia or assisted suicide, to which he is firmly opposed. Rather, Dr. Emanuel questions the utility of perpetually trying to push back our mortality, arguing that this longevity might not be advantageous on a societal or personal level.

Why I hope to die at 75
Conference by Ezekiel J. Emanuel
Chair of Medical Ethics and Health Policy at the University of Pennsylvania
and former special advisor for health policy in the White House

Tuesday, June the 9th
Uni Bastions, Room B106
Rue de Candolle 5, Geneva

Video of the conference (english version)

2015