So you think you want to live forever?

"Do you want to live forever?" is a question that has often been asked. However, until now it has merely been a conversational query. Now, in 2012, technology has advanced so much that it is a question of which the answer may change our lives. Scientists believe that in the near future, thanks to computer technology continuing to progress, we as humans may be able to live forever due to 'mind uploading'.

"Mind uploading is the hypothetical process of transferring or copying a conscious mind from a brain to a non-biological substrate"

There are already signs showing that this could happen soon. For example, people are now able to get small computers called pacemakers inserted into their hearts in order to lengthen life times. There is also research that is currently being done on how we as humans functions.

Although the thought of living forever and never dying seems like a good idea, there are also negatives to having a computer inside your brain. Imagine not being able to keep a secret from anyone. Ever. Everything inside your brain is on a server just like everyone else. You'll know exactly what they're thinking about and vice versa. There is no personal space in the world of mind uploading.
As well as this, what if your family and friends decide they don't want to go ahead with mind uploading? In your world you're living forever. You will never age. Your children will grow older then you and you will see everyone you love and care for die around you. Mind uploading can essentially be a very lonely place. If this was the case, it goes back to the original question: Do you want to live forever?

It would be amazing if we were somehow able to cheat the natural ageing process and live healthily for as long as possible. The average life expectancy in the United Kingdom is 80 years old. How great would it be if we were able to prolong this until 150? Of course, there are advantages to mind uploading. However I am pretty sure that if mind uploading develops into a genuine thing whilst I am still alive, I think I would prefer to grow old gracefully with someone I care about and watch my children and grandchildren grow up. Each to their own.