X-Message-Number: 1504
Date: 23 Dec 92 23:02:37 EST
From: Charles Platt <>
Subject: CRYONICS

To: Kevin Brown
 
 
 
In reply to Ethan Evans, the reason I kept quiet about the 
OMNI cryonics contest here on the net was that I have long 
since learned never to believe that anything will be 
published until I actually see it in print. I would have felt 
foolish if I gave the contest a buildup, and then it didn't 
happen. 
 
I'm flattered that Mr. Evans sees it as a "brilliant coup." 
The real test, however, will be to see how much response is 
generated. Cryonics has a long history of receiving enviable 
publicity, which generates relatively few sign-ups. Will the 
contest be any different? I don't know. 
 
A year ago, when I thought of the contest, I was trying to 
find ways to publicize cryonics to the largest possible 
audience in the most positive possible style. I am now 
wondering if this is the right tactic. After all, as Mike 
Darwin is currently fond of pointing out, cryonics is not yet 
a bona-fide workable product. Nor will it become one until we 
have more activists doing real research. (They have to be 
activists to endure low pay and professional ridicule.) So 
maybe the thing to do is look specifically for young 
activists in the medical field at this point, try to inspire 
them, and leave large-scale publicity till later. 
 
Finding activists is hard work. I think it means taking a 
slide show around to various special-interest groups and 
giving a presentation. It also means being able to answer 
technical questions. I am planning to embark on this, 
together with New York Alcor member Stanley Gerber, who is an 
EMT and studying to be a paramedic. I have a lot of 
experience addressing audiences, but little experience 
presenting cryonics. If anyone can offer advice, ranging from 
"Don't do it!" to "I tried it, and here's what I found," I 
would be grateful You can write me direct or call me at (212) 
929 3983 anytime. Thanks. 
 
--Charles Platt
 


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