Name: How humanity doubled life expectancy in a century
Uploaded: 2021-10-08T14:53:43Z
Duration: 13 min 40 s
Description: Doubling human life expectancy in a century is our greatest achievement, says author Steven Johnson. How did we make it happen -- and can we keep it going? Backed by fascinating historical anecdotes, he shares some life-lengthening innovations and reminds us of three key things needed to make sure all of humanity enjoys these advancements in health.

Doubling human life expectancy in a century is our greatest achievement, says author Steven Johnson. How did we make it happen -- and can we keep it going? Backed by fascinating historical anecdotes, he shares some life-lengthening innovations and reminds us of three key things needed to make sure all of humanity enjoys these advancements in health.

How humanity doubled life expectancy in a century

Humanity has doubled global life expectancy in just a century, raising the average from the mid-30s to over 70 years. This leap was driven not just by science, but also by social movements, public persuasion, and regulatory institutions. Achievements like vaccines and food safety transformed survival, but longer lives have also fueled challenges like population growth and climate change. The next frontier is closing health gaps and ensuring that the benefits of longer, healthier lives reach everyone.

Doubling Lifespans Changed Everything, But Progress Brings New Risks

*Extra Life: A Short History of Living Longer*

history

health

public health

health care

innovation

medicine

science

society

social change

technology

human body

TED Stage Talk

Steven Johnson: How humanity doubled life expectancy in a century