Introductory remarks

This chapter is characterized by a number of provisos:

1. 1. It should not simply be a catalogue of demands for future research but should present a constructive approach to existing findings.

2. 2. It should demonstrate the relevance of basic biological factors for social history within a changing historical framework.

3. 3. It should contain briefly expressed ideas which would encourage interdisciplinary discussion.

4. I set myself three further conditions:

5. 4. I wanted to give a presentation that was as clearly outlined and as readily understandable as possible. Short bold strokes seemed more in place than rarified discussions, even if finer differences would have to be overlooked. The proportion of text and diagrams was to be two to one.

6. 5. Since actual life expectancy today, despite an increase, only reaches its maximum biological potential in the case of a minority, it seemed to me to be essential to show where we stand in a continuous process of development and to what changes foreseeable further development might lead. In the same way that historians put present conditions into an historical context, they are also able to see what are apparently constant factors in relation to the future, in relative terms.

7. 6. The main aim of this chapter is, however, to urge the reader to think more deeply. Even if, because of our increased life span, the biological component of our existence no longer constantly impinges to the same extent today as it did in the past, it still remains fundamental. We are all mortal, even if we die somewhat later on. To start thinking about it then is rather late.