Alexei Turchin is a researcher focused on existential risks and a prominent figure in the Russian transhumanist movement, having been involved since 2007. His work explores the intersection of technology and philosophy, particularly concerning the potential for technological resurrection.
In his presentation, “You Only Live Twice” shared at MTAConf 2019 (whose theme was “Redeeming Our Dead”), Turchin delved into the possibility of using computer simulations of the past for technological resurrection. He draws inspiration from Russian cosmist Nikolai Fedorov, emphasizing the importance of preserving information, especially the human brain’s connectome, for future reconstruction of individuals.
His research encompasses various methods for achieving technological resurrection, including cryonics, digital immortality, plastination, and advanced AI simulations of historical events. Turchin posits that a future superintelligence could potentially reconstruct even those whose resurrection was not actively prepared for.