Representation of death and social management of the limit of life: between resilience and irrationalism

Abstract. Nutrition affects primarily health and the human lifespan. The current development in nutritional/dietetics sciences and technology is part of an extensive strategy aimed at promoting well-being and at ensuring a longer lifespan. This article discusses a specific issue, which may be included in this category, seen for its possible negative consequences. In fact, we highlight the results of a qualitative pilot study aimed at considering the irrational management of the relationship between the extension of human life and the lack of economic resources. The question is considered through an analysis of information posted on the Internet following the warning by the International Monetary Fund in April 2012. The article analyzes some of the characteristics of texts published after the IMF alarm and reports on the textual qualitative outcome of this observation. Our study lasted six months, and included an analysis of English, Italian and Portuguese language sites. Some of the psychological characteristics of the texts are discussed, and we reflect on the irrational traits of our current culture that censors any representation of death