The Precipice: 8 key ideas
The core ideas of The Precipice, each in under a minute, written in our own words. Want the full depth? Get the book.
- IDEA 1 OF 8
Humanity stands at a precipice
Ord argues that humanity has entered a dangerous period he calls the Precipice.
Our technologies have given us the power to destroy ourselves, but our wisdom has not yet caught up, so the coming decades are especially risky.
- IDEA 2 OF 8
Existential risks threaten everything
Ord focuses on existential risks, events that could cause human extinction or permanently ruin humanity's future.
Such risks threaten not just people alive today but all who might ever live.
- IDEA 3 OF 8
Natural risks are relatively small
Ord estimates that natural risks, such as asteroid impacts and supervolcanoes, are relatively unlikely in any given century.
Human history shows we have survived them for a long time. Our survival record is long.
- IDEA 4 OF 8
Human-made risks are larger
Ord argues that risks created by humans, such as nuclear war, climate change and new technologies, are much greater.
These risks have grown rapidly in the modern era. Our power has grown faster than our caution.
- IDEA 5 OF 8
Pandemics could be engineered
Ord warns that advances in biotechnology could allow dangerous pathogens to be created deliberately or accidentally.
He sees this as one of the most serious risks. Safeguards are urgently needed.
- IDEA 6 OF 8
Artificial intelligence poses risks
Ord argues that advanced artificial intelligence that does not share human values could pose a major risk.
He considers this among the largest threats. Careful research and oversight, he argues, are essential.
- IDEA 7 OF 8
The risk is significant
Ord estimates a significant chance of existential catastrophe this century, though he admits such estimates are uncertain.
He argues that even small probabilities deserve serious attention. Taking them seriously costs little compared with what is at stake.
- IDEA 8 OF 8
Safeguarding the future is possible
Ord argues that humanity can reduce these risks through careful policies and research.
Once safe, we could take time for a long reflection on our future. Our choices now matter enormously.
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