Humans desire immortality primarily because it arises from a deep-seated unease with mortality and the perceived negative consequences of death.
Here's a breakdown of the reasons:
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Fear of Death: Many cultures and individuals view death as a particularly undesirable event. The fear of the unknown, the cessation of experiences, and separation from loved ones all contribute to this fear.
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Desire for Continued Existence: Immortality promises the continuation of life, experiences, and relationships beyond the limitations of a natural lifespan. It allows individuals to pursue goals, learn, and evolve without the constraint of time.
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Aversion to Loss: Death involves the loss of one's self, memories, skills, and contributions. Immortality offers a way to avoid this perceived loss and maintain a lasting legacy.
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Solution to Problems Posed by Mortality: Mortality poses significant problems, including the acceptance of personal insignificance, the pressure to achieve goals within a limited timeframe, and the emotional burden of facing one's own demise. Immortality, at least conceptually, eliminates these problems.
In short, the quest for immortality is fueled by a fundamental desire to overcome the limitations and perceived negatives associated with death, and to embrace the possibility of endless life and experience.