On Longevity and Shortness of Life

What if the key to understanding aging had already been explored over two thousand years ago? In On Longevity and Shortness of Life, Aristotle turns his attention to the enduring questions of human existence: What determines how long we live? Why do some species live longer than others? Can the principles of nature help us understand the limits and potential of the human lifespan? In this modern translation, Aristotle's observations and philosophical deductions are brought into the 21st century with accessible language and clear formatting. Blending early biological science with philosophical reasoning, this treatise explores the vital processes behind life, aging, and decay. What You'll Discover in This Modern Translation: A Foundational Inquiry into Aging - Learn how Aristotle viewed heat, moisture, and breath as fundamental to lifespan. The Role of Vital Processes - Explore how natural functions like respiration and digestion influence life's duration. Insights into Nature's Design - Understand why longevity varies among animals and what this says about the nature of existence. Modern Commentary and Context - Gain clarity through contemporary explanations that connect Aristotle's thought to today's biology and medicine. This edition is perfect for readers of classical philosophy, health science, and anyone seeking a timeless perspective on the most personal of questions: how long, and how well, can we live?