The Rich and Powerful Want to Live Forever. What if They Could?
[Special thanks to Lewis Saret (Attorney, Washington, D.C.) for bringing this article to my attention.]
Modern political and technological elites are increasingly interested in extending human life and possibly overcoming death. A widely discussed moment showed Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin walking through the Forbidden City and discussing aging, organ replacement, and the possibility of living longer. The exchange symbolized a growing interest among powerful leaders in extending not only life, but also influence and control.
Around the world, power has become more concentrated in the hands of authoritarian leaders and wealthy technology executives. At the same time, advances in biotechnology and artificial intelligence have created new interest in slowing aging and increasing human life spans. As average life expectancy rises, inequality in wealth and access to health care has also widened, raising concerns that future life-extending treatments may primarily benefit the rich and powerful.
Several major technology figures, including Peter Thiel, Sam Altman, Jeff Bezos, and Bryan Johnson, have invested heavily in anti-aging research and longevity companies. Some support experimental treatments, stem cell research, artificial intelligence projects, and other scientific efforts aimed at slowing or reversing aging. Bryan Johnson, in particular, has become known for devoting much of his fortune to strict anti-aging regimens and medical experiments.
The desire for immortality has existed throughout history. Ancient Chinese alchemists searched for special compounds believed to provide eternal life, while gold often symbolized immortality and lasting power in many cultures. Today, some technology leaders describe artificial intelligence and scientific innovation as tools that may eventually overcome the limits of the human body and dramatically extend life.
Even with these advances, death remains unavoidable. Wealth, political power, and technological innovation cannot fully free people from mortality. Powerful leaders, billionaires, and ordinary people alike all face the same human limits, regardless of status or influence.
For more information see Mark O’Connell “The Rich and Powerful Want to Live Forever. What if They Could?” The New York Times, April 24, 2026.