Venki Ramakrishnan: The Science and Hype of Living Longer | Podcast | In Good Company

Aging is the gradual loss of function across biological systems driven by the accumulation of molecular and cellular damage, particularly to DNA. While public health advancements have significantly raised average life expectancy, the maximum human lifespan remains biologically constrained near 120 years. Nobel laureate Sir Venki Ramakrishnan argues that current longevity trends, including extreme biohacking and cryopreservation, often lack scientific rigor and ignore the complex, analog nature of human biology. Although cellular reprogramming offers a theoretical pathway to reverse biological age, significant safety challenges—such as cancer risks and the difficulty of precise, uniform application—persist. Beyond the science, radical life extension risks creating a stagnant, two-tiered society where power and wealth remain entrenched. Ultimately, maintaining health span through moderate caloric intake, consistent sleep, and regular exercise remains more effective than pursuing speculative, high-cost interventions.