The Prolongation of Life: Optimistic Studies

The work analyzes aging as a largely preventable biological process, arguing that immune cells called phagocytes and harmful intestinal microbes drive senility. It surveys evidence linking diet, gut fermentation, infectious poisons, and lifestyle to premature decay, and proposes hygiene, preventive medicine, dietary changes and introduction of lactic acid bacteria to inhibit putrefaction and extend healthy lifespan. The volume addresses objections about individual versus social interests, using comparative biology to argue that prolonging normal life cycles would allow specialization without compromising the species, and concludes with practical public-health recommendations.