Larry Page, co-founder of Google, announced September 18th that Google intends to start a new company, Calico. The new project will be headed by Arthur Levinson, well known for his work as chairman of Apple, and will try to improve quality of life by addressing the aging process in humans.
This seems like an ambitious goal, even taking into account Google’s track record with the seemingly impossible. This bold move may help boost Google’s brand image though, especially if it is successful. Page made the announcement over Google+, making good use of one of Google’s less popular ventures, showcasing its potential as more than just a social network, but also a site capable of delivering current news. He also ensured shareholders that Calico will only take up a small fraction of Google’s attention and funding. I think this is a good move for Google because it shows their attention to fields other than technology without spreading themselves too thin.
So how does this whole process tie into ethics? There are many risks involved with prolonging human life beyond its natural means. The most concerning is the planet’s ability to support a growing population, a direct side-effect of longer lifespans. If Google is successful in attaining its goal, we may see an older, more senile general population which will have serious implications on resource allocation and economic activity. Many economic systems are already struggling to cope as the Baby Boomer generation passes through retirement. Imagine the volatility of having two generations retiring or being retired at the same time.
This is an interesting move by Google. If they are successful in achieving their goal, they will be revered as the company with no limits, but what sort of long term impact would such success have?
https://plus.google.com/+LarryPage/posts/Lh8SKC6sED1
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