Eternally yours.

Joan Bakewell and guests discuss issues related to the possibility of extending the human lifespan. If the ageing process itself is overcome, how will we be able to face death? Will an extended life be the privilege of those who can afford to pay for it? How will we make way for the next generation? The discussion also touches on the issue of gene patenting, arguing over whether it should be allowed and referring to Myriad Genetics' plan to patent a breast cancer gene and market a diagnostic test which will be too expensive for the NHS. There seems to be no escape from the condition that health often depends on wealth. Should we not pay attention to the present differences in life expectation in this country before attempting to prolong the lifespan of those who can buy the extra years? Among those taking part in the discussion are Prof. Susan Greenfield (neuroscientist), Dr. Tom Kirkwood (gerontologist), Dr. William Haseltine (Human Genome Sciences Inc.) and Angela Tilby (theologian).