X-Message-Number: 10200
Date: Sat, 8 Aug 1998 13:37:47 -0400 (EDT)
From: Charles Platt <>
Subject: Response to Tim Freeman

I agree completely with Tim Freeman but prefer to summarize my 
understanding of his position in one sentence:

We should distinguish between descriptive and prescriptive statements.

I have no problem with anyone describing the dire consequences of longterm
death-inducing behavior. I am not happy, however, when I receive
unsolicited instructions (i.e. prescriptive statements) telling me what I
ought to do about it. I don't care whether these instructions come from
the FDA or from a cryonics organization; they are disrepectful of my
ability to think and choose for myself. 

There is such a thing as leading by example. I think this is ethically
preferable to setting oneself up as an authority who knows what's best for
other people, regardless of their opinions on the matter. 

I continue to believe that for many people, mortality is the "best" 
decision. They will never be happy with the uncertainties and disturbing
ideas of cryonics. They may believe so strongly in an afterlife, they
actually welcome death. That's their privilege, and I respect it, just as 
I wish them to respect my privilege to choose cryopreservation.

This all seems very fundamental to me, and I'm surprised there has been 
so much discussion of the subject.

--CP

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