Life Beyond the Physical Body: The Possibilities of Digital Immortality

Abstract

We are on the verge of a major shift in the way we perceive digital life, what may cause a significant impact to the real world. Gradually, through increasing knowledge in the areas of artificial intelligence, big data and machine learning, computers have been emulating deceased human beings and, symbolically, with the aid of technology, have been managing to conquer death. This article seeks to understand and problematize the ways in which digital immortality has manifested itself, particularly through digital memorials, chatbots and avatars. Companies like Facebook, Eter9 and Initiative 2045 allow a continuity of life after the death of its users. We analyze, through technical and philosophical questions, imbricated in this discussion, the implications of this digital immortality and how these issues are seen in a differentiated way with the presence of technology.