Hype and Hopes of Longevity - What will really help us live better for longer?

Over the past decade, longevity has become a buzzword in the fields of health and lifestyle. New technologies such as artificial intelligence and biomedical advances have fueled visions of a longer and better life. But what scientifically sound innovations exist in this area? And how can they be made accessible to everyone? After all, longevity is not just about new drugs and diets, but rather requires a holistic approach to designing healthy and sustainable livelihoods. Questions of innovation hinge on access to resources and knowledge and that includes social and ethical issues – from equity in health care to the protection of our environments and pathways in policy action. 

How can we communicate a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of longevity? A researcher and a journalist discuss the hopes and hype surrounding longevity science and how we can rethink the meaning of a happy life. The audience is invited to imagine what a more sustainable future for all might look like.

We will also present some of the key learnings from the Communication Lab#10 on longevity - a science-media project organized by Humboldt Foundation in cooperation with the International Journalists' Programmes. https://www.humboldt-foundation.de/en/apply/sponsorship-programmes/humboldt-communication-lab/comlab10-living-longer-living-better