The Longer Life: A Critical Survey of Many Claims to Abnormal Longevity, of Various Theories on Duration of Life and Old Age, and of Divers Attempts at Rejuvenation. With Illustrations

Maurice Ernest

Published by Adam & Co., London, 1938

About this Item

Inscribed by author on title page: "12-8-1949 / To Mr. Frederic Voorhees from [?] Maurice Ernest [New Court, Esher, Surrey, England]." [10], 249pp.; 8.75 x 5.75 in. *** Near fine. Head of spine bumped, slightest shelfwear to extremities; owner signature to inside cover and stamp to front free endpaper. *** "Maurice Ernest was born in Austria on May 21, 1872 and was the son of Dr. Louis Ernst. He received his education in Paris and Vienna, studying first medicine and then law. From 1897 to 1909 Ernest served as London correspondent for several Austrian, Swedish, and American dailies. In 1898, he was the Honorable Secretary of the Foreign Press Association. Since 1909 Ernest devoted himself to biological study and research. In 1928 he founded the Centenarian Club, the aim of which was to investigate the means 'whereby health and vigour may be retained beyond the century.'" [University of Chicago Library] *** "In a recent article on 'Some Health and Life Tips from Deepak Chopra', Liza Berger gives a neat summary of Ernest's principles. The list is credited by Deepak Chopra to Maurice Ernest (cited by the old name of Ernst): 'Ernst researched biographies of centenarians across European cultures back to ancient times. He concluded that understanding a few physical processes would extend our lives to 100 to 120 years. Here are his recommendations: "Eat frugally; Exercise and get plenty of fresh air; Choose a congenial occupation; Develop a placid or easygoing personality; Maintain a high level of personal hygiene; Drink wholesome liquids; Abstain from stimulants and sedatives; Get plenty of rest; Have a bowel movement once a day; Live in a temperate climate; Enjoy a reasonable sex life; Get proper medical attention in case of illness."' In fact Ernest whilst suggesting such sensible provisions, gathered from a myriad of sources, shows in the conclusion of The Longer Life that his real purpose is to gain funding for longevity research based on an Experimental Station. In Lives of 300 Years he has moved towards the idea of adding a Longer Life Centre to the Experimental Station where people could come from all countries to receive instruction in pleasant surroundings 'on preventative and rejuvenating practices.'" [Lucy Evans, "The Problem of Death: Dr Maurice Ernest and his Longevity Library"].

Seller Inventory # ABE-1741844016276

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Longer Life: A Critical Survey of Many Claims to Abnormal Longevity, of Various Theories on Duration of Life and Old Age, and of Divers Attempts at Rejuvenation. With Illustrations
• Publisher: Adam & Co., London
• Publication Date: 1938
• Language: English
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition: 1st Edition
• Condition: Near Fine
• Weight: 2 pounds
• Signed: Signed by Author(s)
• Seller catalogs:
  • First Editions
  • Signed
  • Medical History