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