If correlation cannot demonstrate causation, is it possible to prove to someone that s/he will eventually die?

Question

It seems reasonable that many of us expect to die eventually because it seems everyone dies sooner or later.

Axioms are self-evident, but does it follow that if there is life, there must be death?

Answer 1

While it is arguable, in my estimation, whether a correlation can demonstrate a causation, I will say this. It is relevant in this situation. The opposing argument, as far as I can see it, is whether the body of evidence is reasonable substantiation for making a conclusion. In this case, yes.

However, the heart of the matter is not dependent on either of these. While I agree With '19' in that change is a much better term to apply to this scenario, it still makes no impact upon the heart of the subject.

The plain fact of the matter is, we simply don't know enough about the nature of existence at this point to make an informed conclusion. With that being the case, all we have to go on is the body of evidence that we have at our disposal and the knowledge that it has been gained by that experience. I'm not saying that it isn't possible that humans may one day find out enough to intelligently answer that question with any kind of certainty, it is just that we do not as of this point in time, have reason to judge in any other way.

Answer 2

That is a good question. Perhaps a way of understanding it would be to question the actual semantics of the question, or the actual words, word for word. Start by looking up each word, and getting a definition. Then piece it all together for a fuller picture. Personally, I think "life" and "death" are unfortunate words in our language and culture. The optimum word I think would be 'change'. It is evident that everything changes, and changes all the time. We were something before we got here (door # 1), we're here now (door # 2) and some day we won't be here , not in this body at least (door # 3). Astronauts have heard old I Love Lucy episodes in outer space during orbits. It is all electrochemical energy that never goes away.
If you have never seen the movie The Right Stuff, I recommend that you rent it. Pay particular attention to the Aboriginal people as the first space capsule orbiting the earth went over Australia. It will open your eyes and hopefully you will have a life time of more questions than answers.

Answer 3

There was an episode of family guy where for some reason stewie and brian were in a coffee shop in amsterdam and when it cuts back they were stoned and stewie said something along the lines of
"Maybe the only reason we die...is because we accept death as an inevitability"
However to answer your question I can't say for sure I just thought that was amusing.

Answer 4

Ask your dead grandfather.