"Why I Want to Die at 75"

Missed this when it came out:

On Sept. 17, 2014, the Atlantic published a piece by Ezekiel J. Emanuel entitled "Why I want to die at 75." Here is an excerpt:

Americans seem to be obsessed with exercising, doing mental puzzles, consuming various juice and protein concoctions, sticking to strict diets, and popping vitamins and supplements, all in a valiant effort to cheat death and prolong life as long as possible. This has become so pervasive that it now defines a cultural type: what I call the American immortal.
I reject this aspiration. I think this manic desperation to endlessly extend life is misguided and potentially destructive. For many reasons, 75 is a pretty good age to aim to stop.

Emanuel does not seem to seek the treacly agreement that others bring to discussions of death. He states his position and reasons. I happen to feel heartened by them: At last, someone talking turkey about a dicey subject. If you agree with him, that's your business. If you disagree with him, that's your business. The need for an over-arching philosophy or religion is left out ... Emanuel offers you a stick of gum; the flavor is not improved or upended by polling others.