We are genetically programmed for a different world. Genes that were important for our ancestors in a world of scarcity, where they were driven to consume large amounts of high-energy and salty food for survival, have led people to overeat in our modern context when such food is now overabundant. Obesity has become a global epidemic, leading to major chronic illnesses, such as diabetes.

In addition, lack of courage in society to address end-of-life issues has resulted in the mindless extension of lives, with many elderly people "living" out their last years severely demented, bedridden, in pain and with little meaningful interaction with others.