Cryogenics and cryonics are two distinct practices, although they are often confused due to their similar-sounding names. Cryogenics is a scientific field that focuses on studying the effects of extremely low temperatures. Originating in the Netherlands in 1894, research in this field began in 1887 when scientists successfully converted gases like oxygen, nitrogen, and hydrogen into liquids by subjecting them to extreme cold.
In modern times, cryogenics primarily refers to the use of temperatures below -150°C. It is a legitimate and widely accepted scientific discipline that has various applications in industries such as medicine, aerospace, and electronics. Cryogenic technologies play a crucial role in preserving biological samples, conducting experiments at ultra-low temperatures, and developing superconductors.
On the other hand, cryonics is an unproven process that revolves around the idea of freezing the human body or brain after death with the hope of future revival. Cryonics enthusiasts believe that by preserving the body or brain in a state of extreme cold, future advancements in technology and medicine may enable revival and restoration of life. However, the feasibility and scientific validity of cryonics remain highly controversial and speculative.
It is important to note that cryonics facilities currently exist, with three operating in the United States and Russia. These facilities offer services to freeze and store bodies or brains after death, with the hope of potential reanimation in the future. However, the scientific community generally views cryonics as a pseudoscience due to the lack of evidence supporting its claims.
In summary, cryogenics is a well-established scientific field that deals with the effects of extremely low temperatures, while cryonics is a speculative practice that involves freezing the human body or brain for potential revival. Despite their similar names, it is crucial to differentiate between the two and understand the scientific consensus surrounding each.
The Birth of the Cryonics Institute
In 1962, Robert Ettinger established the Cryonics Institute in Michigan, propelling cryogenics into the spotlight and capturing the public’s fascination. The fundamental objective of cryonics is to preserve the human body through long-term freezing, effectively halting the process of decay. Originally conceived for individuals afflicted with incurable diseases or those reaching the end of their natural lifespans, cryonics hinges on the belief that future advancements in medical science will offer salvation to those currently deemed beyond saving.
Two Phases of Cryonics
The concept of cryonics involves two distinct phases. The initial phase of cryogenic suspension can only be initiated once a person has been legally pronounced dead. This stage involves the removal of blood from the body and its replacement with a solution that preserves the organs and a cryoprotectant solution. The body is then rapidly frozen using liquid nitrogen. The subsequent phase of cryonics entails the revival of the frozen body. While cryonics facilities assert that they have successfully accomplished the first phase of cryonics, the feasibility of the second phase remains uncertain.