Clearer Thinking with Spencer Greenberg What does humanity need to survive after a global catastrophe? (with David Denkenberger)
Nov 24, 2021
David Denkenberger, an expert in global catastrophic risks and assistant professor at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, delves into survival strategies for humanity amidst potential disasters. He discusses the vulnerabilities of food systems during crises like nuclear winters, highlighting resilient food sources such as mushrooms and seaweed. The conversation touches on the need for government investment and effective communication about risks. Denkenberger emphasizes cooperation in disaster scenarios and shares insights on ensuring food security and societal resilience.
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Catastrophic Risks
- Civilization faces major setbacks from events like wars, climate change, or solar flares.
- David Denkenberger divides these catastrophes into two categories: those affecting food supply and those impacting large-scale electricity.
Food Supply Vulnerability
- The grass family (wheat, corn, rice, etc.) constitutes 70% of our food supply.
- This makes it a critical vulnerability to crop diseases, pests, or weeds.
Conventional Food Shortage Responses
- Conventional responses to food shortages include increasing crop output and reducing food waste.
- However, these might be insufficient due to price increases and cascading consequences like mass migration and conflict.
