The Badness of Death and Immortality - Lecture 18

Explore a thought-provoking lecture from Yale University's Philosophy course on death and immortality. Delve into the philosophical debate surrounding the badness of death, examining whether non-existence before birth is equally problematic. Encounter the perspectives of contemporary philosophers like Tom Nagle, Fred Feldman, and Derek Parfit on this intriguing topic. Shift focus to the concept of immortality, questioning the desirability of eternal life and the conditions under which it might remain appealing. Conclude with Bernard Williams' perspective on immortality, which argues that no form of human existence can maintain its allure indefinitely. Through five distinct chapters, engage with complex ideas about existence, non-existence, and the potential drawbacks of living forever.

- Chapter 1. The Modest Existence Clause .
- Chapter 2. "Schmoss" of Life: Is it Bad? .
- Chapter 3. Feldman and Parfit on Nonexistence before Life .
- Chapter 4. Is Immortality the Antidote to Deprivation-Based Death? .
- Chapter 5. Conclusion: A "Best" Immortal State? .