[ninjanomnom]

One of the longest lived octopus species we know of has a lifespan of about 5 years, even if they were more intelligent than humans they'd have a hard time establishing a society only being able to establish 5 years worth of knowledge per individual. Let's make longevity treatments for octopi and see if they learn enough to make/join society.

[ljlolel]

Airplane with bullet holes meme.

Think it through: If a long lived social octopus species regularly evolved and made civilization that collapsed its species, then the only similar species left would be one that is absurdly solitary and absurdly short lived. Think about it. Evolution is counterintuitive.

[maegul]

I’d even go so far as to say that human civilisation struggles with the longevity of humans. We’re rather short lived compared to the impacts our actions can have, as a technologically enabled and socially civilised species.

Life really is short. If our lifespan were twice or ten times longer, the whole thing would be a different ballgame.

[tiborsaas]

At least it's long enough for us to recognize it and use it as a source of ambition to make the most of it. I've recently turned 40 and I have a mild panic that I haven't done anything worthy, but there's still time ahead.

[pvaldes]

> I haven't done anything worthy,

Keeping yourself alive for 40 years. Not a minor victory.

[tiborsaas]

Indeed, by 1850s standards, I'm doing a great job :D