Longtermism Doing the most good possible from a civilization-scale perspective

Longtermism is a philosophy focused on doing the most cumulative good possible from a civilization-scale perspective. It argues we should prioritize reducing existential risks and positively shaping humanity’s long-term potential, as the future contains vast potential value.

Longtermism is a philosophical and ethical concept that focuses on considering the long-term consequences of our actions and decisions. It is particularly relevant in discussions surrounding global challenges, such as climate change, poverty, and existential risks.

Longtermism advocates for making choices that maximize the well-being and flourishing of future generations, even if it requires sacrificing some short-term gains. The underlying idea is that our actions today can have significant and far-reaching impacts on the future, and we have a moral responsibility to consider these potential consequences.

Some fundamental principles and ideas associated with longtermism include:

1. Future Generations Matter: Longtermism emphasizes the intrinsic value of future generations and stresses the need to act in ways that secure a positive and sustainable future for them.

2. Moral Trade-offs: Longtermism acknowledges that addressing specific global challenges might involve moral trade-offs between present and future well-being. It challenges the prevailing short-term focus in many decision-making processes.

3. Existential Risks: Longtermism addresses existential risks, threats that could endanger humanity’s existence or severely impact the potential for human flourishing on a large scale. Examples include nuclear war, pandemics, and advanced artificial intelligence gone wrong.

4. Effective Altruism: Longtermism is often associated with the effective altruism movement, which seeks to identify and support the most impactful ways to do good and improve the world. This involves using evidence and reason to guide charitable efforts and social initiatives.

5. Intergenerational Ethics: Longtermism raises questions about intergenerational ethics, exploring how our actions today affect the well-being and rights of future generations.

It’s important to note that longtermism is a complex and evolving philosophical idea, and there are different perspectives and interpretations surrounding its implementation and practicality. Various scholars, thinkers, and organizations are exploring the implications and applications of longtermism across multiple disciplines.

Detailed Resources

• Big Think: Longtermism: The future is vast – what does this mean for our own life? by Max Roser (2023)
• Article: The Evolutionary Manifesto: Our Role in the Future Evolution of Life by John Stewart (2008)

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