mlhpdx 11 hours ago

Shorter lifespans drive faster evolution. That was taught in basic biology and we, as a society, know it all too well (infectious diseases).

It’s difficult to square obsession with a long life with a healthy humanity.

  • wizzwizz4 6 hours ago

    Faster evolution does not necessarily translate to better outcomes. Exhibit A: the respiratory capabilities of the brachycephalic pug. Exhibit B: the rabbit fear response – they can get so terrified that they break their own spines trying to escape. Exhibit C: every creature with a hybrid r/K reproductive strategy involving child- or sibling-cannibalism.

    • mlhpdx 4 hours ago

      > Faster evolution does not necessarily translate to better outcomes.

      For individuals, of course yes. But for populations? Also yes, but temporarily as dead-ends (A), or inconsequential stopovers (B), or distasteful (C).