Astronomical Value, Existential Risk, and Billionaire Philanthropy with David Thorstad

In this episode I sit down with David Thorstad to delve into three series from his blog, Reflective Altruism, that challenge various aspects of EA. We discuss the unexpected tension between existential risk pessimism and the astronomical value thesis, whether EAs are exaggerating the risk of human extinction, and how both society and the EA movement should think about billionaire philanthropy.

 

Episode Transcript

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Show Notes:

• David's Blog: Reflective Altruism 
• The three series's we discuss:
  • Existential risk pessimism and the time of perils
  • Exaggerating the risks
  • Billionaire philanthropy
• David's academic website
• David's Recommendations:
  • Amia Srinivasan and her book The Right to Sex
  • The Good It Promises
• Other things mentioned:
  • Existential risk and growth
  • Climate Endgame: Exploring catastrophic climate change scenarios
  • The Musk Foundation's website