The End Of The World with Josh Clark cover image

The End Of The World with Josh Clark

X Risks

Nov 7, 2018
Guests Nick Bostrom, David Pearce, and Robin Hanson discuss the Great Filter, existential risks, and the future of humanity. They explore the potential population growth, self-sacrificing behaviors within species, and the distinction between the easy and hard problems of consciousness. They also delve into the consequences of ecological and social collapse, resource wars, and the importance of preserving knowledge.
39:05

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Quick takeaways

  • Existential risks, such as global catastrophic events or the misuse of advanced technology, pose a unique danger to humanity with the potential to wipe out the entire human race.
  • Successfully navigating existential risks is crucial for the survival and future progress of humanity, as there is no room for trial and error and even a single failure could lead to the irreversible end of humankind.

Deep dives

Existential risks and the future of humanity

Existential risks pose a unique danger to humanity, as they have the potential to wipe out the entire human race. Unlike other risks, which can be managed through trial and error, there is no room for error with existential risks. These risks, such as global thermonuclear war or the misuse of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and biotechnology, have catastrophic consequences that would permanently end humanity. While the chances of these risks occurring are relatively low, the severity of their outcome makes them worth considering and mitigating. The future of humanity depends on successfully navigating these unprecedented technological challenges and reaching a state of technological maturity, where we have these technologies under control. By preparing and planning for these risks now, we can secure a bright and long future for humanity, spreading across the universe and unlocking a vast cosmic endowment of resources.

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