Making Sense with Sam Harris Special Episode: Engineering the Apocalypse
Apr 24, 2021
Rob Reid, a tech entrepreneur and science fiction writer, discusses the urgent threat of engineered pandemics. He reveals that the risk of artificial pathogens surpasses our understanding and emphasizes the need for proactive preparedness. Topics include the ethical dilemmas of manipulating dangerous viruses, the necessity of a global immune system, and the innovative use of far UVC light technology to combat diseases. Reid urges comprehensive regulatory frameworks and investments in health infrastructure to mitigate both synthetic and natural biological risks.
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Rob Reid's Background
- Rob Reid's interest in bioterrorism stems from his time in Cairo and the assassination of Farag Foda.
- This led him to focus on terrorism and later explore synthetic biology in his science fiction novel and podcast.
Beyond Deterrence
- Preventing engineered pandemics can't rely solely on deterring malicious actors.
- Acquiring the technology must be difficult to reduce the probability of such events.
Moral Responsibility of Scientists
- Inventors and scientists bear greater moral responsibility with potentially catastrophic technologies.
- Consider the potential for rapid, unexpected advancements and their impact on society.