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#68 - Will MacAskill on the paralysis argument, whether we're at the hinge of history, & his new priorities

80,000 Hours Podcast

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Evolving Perspectives on Existential Risks

This chapter explores changing attitudes towards existential risks and the probability of human extinction, showcasing a speaker's personal shift from a 20% to a 1% chance. It analyzes historical patterns, governmental responses, and public attitudes towards technological risks, particularly in relation to nuclear weapons and emerging threats like artificial intelligence. The discussion presents a nuanced view of potential global catastrophes, advocating for a balanced understanding of risks and resilience in societal responses.

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