# Global Ultra-Wealthy Individuals and Their Untimely Demise
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Chapter 1: The Reality of Wealth and Mortality
The case of David Rockefeller, who underwent several organ transplants during his lifetime, highlights a troubling trend among the ultra-wealthy. Despite their immense resources, many billionaires have succumbed to mortality in the last twenty years. All the advanced medical procedures, including blood transfusions and experimental treatments, could not stave off the inevitable. Like everyone else, they faced the decline that comes with aging, resulting in a diminished quality of life long before their passing. The wealth they possessed could have been directed toward extending their lives and enhancing their health.
In a rational society, one would expect the ultra-rich to unite, pooling their vast fortunes to invest in medical innovation, thereby accelerating advancements in healthcare and extending human lifespan. By now, they could have been living well into their 120s or even 140s, enjoying a high quality of life throughout those years. They would have had the opportunity to achieve more, leaving behind significant legacies, rather than being limited to a mere 30 or 40 years of impactful existence. Yet, many choose to hoard their riches, resigning themselves to the process of aging and eventual death.
Some of them may have embraced the notion of the "natural order" of life, believing that aging is a process that culminates in death by their 70s. However, this belief is fundamentally flawed. A century ago, life expectancy was significantly lower; people often experienced a decline in vitality between the ages of 30 and 40, with death occurring in their 40s or 50s. While today, the average life expectancy exceeds 70, many can remain active into their late 60s or even early 70s.
This indicates that the current state of affairs is not the "natural" progression of life. Instead, it reflects our lack of understanding regarding longevity and health. If we enhance our knowledge and advance medical science, it is entirely feasible to extend human lifespans well beyond 100 years.
Section 1.1: The Longevity of Other Species
Interestingly, various tortoise species can live for 200 to 300 years, while most large tortoises exceed 100 years. Certain whale species also enjoy lifespans surpassing 200 years, and some sharks can live for over 300 years. This starkly contrasts with the relatively short lifespans of humans, suggesting that our potential for longevity is not being realized.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Role of the Ultra-Rich
The ultra-wealthy hold a significant portion of global wealth and control over economic resources, yet they are not utilizing these assets to enhance their own longevity or that of others. Instead, they often focus on hoarding wealth and reinforcing their own power and status.
If they chose to combine even a fraction of their resources and invest in medical advancements, they could lead humanity toward a healthier, longer-lived future. This act would not only benefit themselves but could enhance the quality of life for everyone.
Section 1.2: A Call to Action
The ultra-wealthy should consider pooling a substantial part of their wealth to fund medical research and delve deeper into human physiology. Their goal should be to uncover technologies and practices that facilitate longer, healthier lives.
This initiative should operate devoid of profit motives. As the health of the ultra-rich improves, so too would the health of the wider population, ultimately boosting economic productivity across various sectors.
Chapter 2: The Future of Human Lifespan
The video "Why Do Rich People Kill Themselves?" delves into the psychological and societal pressures faced by the ultra-wealthy, exploring the reasons behind their untimely deaths despite their financial resources.
In "Sleep Is Non-Negotiable: Dr. Matthew Walker | Rich Roll Podcast," Dr. Walker discusses the critical importance of sleep for health and longevity, emphasizing that proper rest is vital for everyone, including the wealthy.