Why Is No One Talking About Existential Risk? | Mara Cortona | Modern Wisdom Podcast 229

Highlighting the Ignored: Understanding Existential Risk with Mara Cortona

In the thought-provoking episode "Why Is No One Talking About Existential Risk?" from the Modern Wisdom Podcast, host Chris Williamson and guest Mara Cortona delve into the often overlooked topic of existential risks. This summary captures their discussion, emphasizing the crucial points and suggestions made throughout the episode.

Core Concepts and Philosophies

Key concepts discussed include:

• The distinction between existential risks (threats to human extinction) and global catastrophic risks (threats that could severely reduce the quality of human life globally).
• The disproportionate focus on anthropogenic (human-caused) risks like climate change, nuclear war, and biotechnology, over natural risks such as asteroid impacts or supervolcanic eruptions.
• The importance of addressing these risks with a proactive, rather than reactive, approach.

Practical Strategies and Advice

Mara Cortona offers several strategies to better address and mitigate existential risks:

• Global Collaboration and Communication: Enhance global mechanisms for better coordination and sharing of information across countries and disciplines.
• Public Awareness: Increase public understanding and engagement through education and media to foster a broader discussion on existential risks.
• Investment in Technology and Research: Fund and develop technologies that could prevent or mitigate these risks, such as advanced monitoring systems for detecting pandemic threats or asteroid impacts.

Supporting Evidence

The discussion includes references to historical precedents, such as the 1918 influenza pandemic, and recent events like the COVID-19 pandemic, to illustrate the need for preparedness. It also mentions the lack of a unified global response to such crises as a significant hurdle.

Personal Application

Mara shares her own experiences and practices, including her efforts to incorporate existential risk awareness into her daily life and interactions. She aims to spark conversations that could lead to greater collective awareness and action.

Recommendations for Tools and Techniques

Highlighted tools and approaches include:

• Advanced Data Analytics: Use of big data and machine learning to predict and model potential risks.
• Policy Development: Development of international policies that enforce stringent controls and preparedness for potential biotechnological and environmental hazards.
• Community Engagement Platforms: Creation of platforms that encourage discussion and community-driven solutions to existential threats.

The podcast emphasizes the urgent need for global cooperation and proactive strategies to address existential risks, suggesting that ignoring these could lead to catastrophic outcomes for humanity.