Longevity and Immortality vs Survival (Schismatrix)

The Schismatrix describes a universe in which Earth has outgrown itself. A lunar alliance is formed between ten Concatenate worlds, which become the nexus of civilization. Then progress is made into deeper space, leaving the Earth behind to fall into seclusion and technical decline. The entire lunar neighborhood is left behind. Longevity is pursued by all, some with Mechanics and some with genetics. In an effort to extend life, limbs are exchanged for constructed parts, and even minds are wired until their very hosts brain is inconsequential. Two very different factions evolve and are at constant odds with each other in their pursuit of longer life. Wars are fought and nations are won or lost in an ongoing battle for supremacy that continues until the first Investor ship arrives.

The Investors are a race that has lived so long that their beginnings are...