From: S.J. Van Sickle (sjvan@csd.uwm.edu)
Date: Fri Jul 26 2002 - 18:14:57 MDT
The word "cryonics" has been long hated. Attempts to replace it have been
haphazard and unsatisfactory, and runs the risk, after its long use, of
being borderline dishonest to simply deny the word. Therefore, in the
midst of another forum brainstorming terminology, I came up with this
series of definitions. While we may not be able get rid of the word
entirely, we can certainly add to it and perhaps limit its use.
This struck me as being a perfect area for comment, constructive or
otherwise. Modifications, suggestions, or additions are welcome. Flame
away:
Definitions:
Cryonics: the ethical principle that the legally dead but biologically
viable should be stabilized and cared for indefinitely until such time as
they can be restored to health.
Medicine: the ethical principle that the biologically viable should be
stabilized and cared for indefinitely until such time as they can be
restored to health.
Biostasis: The process by which those who espouse cryonics ethics
stabilize and care for their patients.
Freezing: Biostasis by means of cryogenic temperatures where no
cryoprotective agents are used, resulting in nearly all the water in the
body becoming ice crystals. Partially reversible with current
technology on a cellular level.
Cryopreservation: Biostasis by means of cryogenic temperatures and the
use of cryoprotective agents to reduce the damage caused by the cold and
the number and size of ice crystals. Partially reversible with current
technology on a cellular and small tissue level.
Vitrification: Biostasis by means of cryogenic temperatures using
cryoprotective agents that eliminate all or almost all damage caused by
ice crystal formation. Partially reversible with current technology on a
cellular, small tissue, and possibly small organ level.
Chemical Fixation. Hypothetical method of biostasis that has not been
widely used. Low temperatures are not essential. Chemical fixation is
primarily used to preserve tissues, organs, and bodies in scientific
research. Not reversible with current technology.
Suspended Animation: Temporary biostasis at moderate to deep hypothermic
temperatures, sometimes with blood replacement. Completely reversible
with current technology if maintained for a short enough period of time.
Often the result of accident or used as a medical intervention.
Hibernation: Naturally occurring suspended animation or freezing.
Naturally reversible.
Embalming, mummification, and burial: primitive attempts at biostasis,
with no expectation of recovery to anything other than a spiritual
world.
Cremation: Complete and deliberate destruction of an individual beyond
any conceivable means of recovery.
steve van sickle
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