Saul Justin Newman's 'Morbid' Challenges Longevity Science

In a review by The New Yorker, two books are examined: 'Morbid: Debunking Modern Longevity Science' authored by Saul Justin Newman and 'Eat Your Ice Cream' by Ezekiel J. Emanuel, both addressing concerns within longevity studies. Newman, who is affiliated with Oxford and a recipient of the 2024 Ig Nobel Prize, argues that records of extreme ages, such as those of Jiroemon Kimura and Christian Mortensen, are frequently inaccurate. He points out that many supercentenarians hail from regions with inadequate documentation, like Okinawa, where wartime events distorted centenarian statistics. Additionally, he critiques Dan Buettner's 'blue zones' theory, highlighting that Okinawa's diet includes KFC and smoking. Emanuel promotes straightforward habits for a fulfilling life, associating ice cream with a reduced risk of diabetes. The review also notes societal factors, referencing Raj Chetty's findings on the disparity in life expectancy between the wealthy and the poor.