Cryonics organizations in the United States

Cryonics Organizations in the United States

Cryonics is the low-temperature freezing (usually at −196°C) of a human corpse or severed head, with the speculative hope that resurrection may be possible in the future. Cryonics is regarded with skepticism within the mainstream scientific community and has been characterized as pseudoscience. However, it remains a topic of interest and has led to the establishment of several organizations in the United States. These organizations are dedicated to the practice of cryonics, research in the field, and the promotion of the concept to the public.

History of Cryonics in the United States

The concept of cryonics was brought to public attention in the United States in the 1960s by Robert Ettinger, often referred to as "the father of cryonics." Ettinger's book, The Prospect of Immortality, laid the philosophical foundation for cryonics and led to the establishment of the first cryonics organizations.

Major Cryonics Organizations

Alcor Life Extension Foundation

Founded in 1972, the Alcor Life Extension Foundation is one of the largest and most well-known cryonics organizations in the world. Based in Scottsdale, Arizona, Alcor offers cryopreservation of the whole body or just the brain (neuropreservation) and has advanced cryopreservation facilities.

Cryonics Institute

The Cryonics Institute (CI), founded in 1976 by Robert Ettinger himself, is located in Clinton Township, Michigan. CI focuses on providing affordable cryopreservation services and conducts research to improve cryopreservation technologies.

American Cryonics Society

The American Cryonics Society (ACS), operating since 1969, is one of the oldest cryonics organizations in the United States. It works closely with other organizations to provide cryopreservation services and supports research in cryobiology.

Cryonics Research and Technology

Cryonics organizations in the United States are at the forefront of research in cryobiology, the study of biological materials at low temperatures. They invest in the development of vitrification solutions to prevent ice formation during freezing, and in the exploration of potential future technologies for revival, such as nanotechnology and regenerative medicine.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Cryonics involves complex legal and ethical issues, including the definition of death, consent for cryopreservation, and the financial and environmental costs of long-term maintenance. Cryonics organizations often work with legal experts to ensure compliance with current laws and to advocate for regulations that support cryonics practices.

Conclusion

Cryonics organizations in the United States play a crucial role in the development and promotion of cryonics. Despite facing scientific skepticism and ethical debates, these organizations continue to advance the field through research, technological improvements, and public education.