X-Message-Number: 5557
Date: Tue, 09 Jan 1996 11:15:03 -0800
From:  (Dwight G. Jones)
Subject: Re: CryoNet #5550 - #5553
References: <>

Robert Ettinger wrote:

> It is not physically possible to be motivated by anything other than self
> interest. The major problem in life--one might even say the only problem--is
> figuring out first what defines self interest (basically feel-good, but with
> many subtleties and perplexities), and then what policies are likely to
> promote it. Rotsa ruck.

In this feel-good model (Epicurianism)you are always estimating that you 
have only the life before your eyes, thus the drive for instant 
gratification, exalted status, and blatant short-term interest.

Without denigrating human nature as being the prime motivator, we can 
nonetheless conceive of loftier value systems. For example, in the work 
I am developing now (as a writer, I am usually a software designer), the 
approach is to take a much longer view. 

If you entrust your DNA to an institution in which you believe (the 
various cryonics providers or, in my case the Church of Man), then your 
life should be a less one of "quiet desperation", to quote Thoreau. You 
should be less concerned about real estate (which, like beer, you can 
only rent from God)and more concerned about family lineage. You can be 
happy with enough and be actively interested in preparing for your next 
instantiation (as a clone of yourself).

You can try to view the sequences of life in a more relaxed, Zen 
fashion, to seek the "subleties and perplexities". And you would 
enjoy doing this through a abiding interest, not just on weekends. The 
whole mindset changes, as you look on your brothers and sisters (in the 
movement) with heartfelt attachment and concern- they are of course your 
keepers. 

The cryonics movement does not provide enough of these aspects at 
present. There is too much a persistent smell of formaldehyde right now 
that does not flatter our organizations, and we need to emphasize the 
spiritual benefits of being at peace with our fellows and our Universe.

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