X-Message-Number: 15651
Date: Thu, 15 Feb 2001 11:20:25 -0800
From: Jeff Davis <>
Subject: Voluntary deanimation

Phil Rhoades wrote (or at least that is how I understand it):

> >I think that is one of the most important points of this arena - the
> >question is: how do we do it legally?

Then he followed up with<various snippage>:

>When it is time, you want a smooth exit and immediate suspension, 
>_therefore_ we have to get to the situation where we can do it under 
>controlled conditions, at a time of our own choosing.  Therefore the law 
>needs changing so that this is possible.

I agree.  And rather than making this more difficult than needs be,
consider the following approach:

Meet with your legislative representative (I notice that Phil is down in
Australia, with whatever difference in details that implies) and discuss
the matter--make your case--and then request NARROWLY DRAWN legislation to
gain the legislative authorization needed.  Originally, in my plan for
myself, I envisioned legislation for me and me alone.  (It's about
narrowness not selfishness.)  But upon further consideration, I think that
the law should apply to those with active enrollment in cryonics
organizations (plus, PERHAPS, those unsigned-up persons whose doctors
recommend it.) The narrowness of the legislation is intended to moderate
the objection that might arise from a broader law.  A broader law would
unnecessarily apply--in fact, against their wishes--to some who might find
it morally objectionable.  (Those who, for instance,  failing to understand
the theory and intent of cryonic suspension, would equate pre-mortem
voluntary deanimation with suicide.)  To whatever extent possible
cryonicists should avoid the price of erroneous associations with
'legalized suicide' and 'physician-assisted suicide'. While the material
circumstances bear some similarity, the intention is the diametric
opposite--which why we use the uniquely distinct term 'deanimation'.  

[A bit of a disjoint comment here.
When making your case for cryonics, don't fail to mention the vast
potential for reducing human suffering.  Not only will ALL the depredations
of disease, injury, and aging be brought to a frozen standstill to
patiently await a reliably more favorable outcome (Contigent of course on
successful reanimation.  I won't go into here why I believe SUCCESS IS A
NEAR CERTAINTY.), but the benefits extend to every one of the everyday
people who then get to live in a world of vastly diminished human
suffering.  And don't forget the children.  I don't know about you, but I
know of nothing in the world more heart-rending than the horror of children
with cancer, surrounded by caregivers and family, who, themselves in the
utmost torment, have to pretend, for the sake of the kids, that life is not
a howling tragedy.  Remember the kids!]

This is the conventional, orderly, and respectful-of-civil-authority method
of approaching a practical legislative need.  By showing respect for the
process, and for those in positions of power who bear the responsability
for handling it wisely, you maximize you chance for a favorable outcome.
At the same time you establish a track record as someone of good faith, and
of responsible, rational, and proportionate action. 

Then, if you are unsuccessful in getting legislative relief, you've built
bridges, made your case, promoted cryonics in the halls of power where it
can do substanial good, and laid the groundwork for Plan B.  

Plan B is to contact that branch of government (the State Department?)
which bears responsibilty for the welfare of Americans abroad, and discuss
with them how you can leave the jurisdiction of the United States (or of
whatever country you are a citizen) and accomplish your deanimation without
violation of the laws of your native land.  Build bridges, establish lines
of communication, actively enroll allies by demonstrating rationality and
respect.  I firmly believe this will result in getting the cooperation you
need to SAVE YOUR LIFE.

It may be necessary--as a final detail, the appropriate governmental
department will be able to tell you--to renounce your citizenship, in order
to lift the burden of legal responsibility for your 'protection' that your
native country bears even when you venture beyond its borders. 

That's the plan.  

<snip>
>it is silly to wait until reversible 
>suspended animation is proved before people can have control over their own 
>lives . . rather than being "dangerous ground", it is a critical point of 
>philosophy and law that should be discussed and debated.  People should be 
>_demanding_ this right to be able to control their own bodies!
  
I agree.  With a little work, and a demonstrated respect for others, I
think it will be achieved.

>The whole of human history has been a continuous struggle to liberate 
>people from the imposed theology/opression of others, -

That way lies justice.  Thanks Phil.







			Best, Jeff Davis

	   "Everything's hard till you know how to do it."
					Ray Charles				

Rate This Message: http://www.cryonet.org/cgi-bin/rate.cgi?msg=15651