The Importance of the Far Future

Abstract

Moral consideration ought to extend beyond currently existing individuals to encompass those in the far future, whose potential numbers vastly exceed the present population. Consequently, actions impacting the long-term future may hold significantly greater ethical weight than those with only near-term effects. Rapid technological progress, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence, space colonization, and bioengineering, presents potential for immense advancements but also carries unprecedented risks of astronomical suffering (s-risks). Scenarios include the large-scale exploitation of digital sentience, the propagation of suffering to other planets, or the development of misaligned superintelligence. Preventing such outcomes necessitates proactive strategies. Key approaches include developing precautionary principles and safety agreements for emerging technologies, fostering universal moral concern for all sentient beings regardless of their characteristics or temporal location, and promoting values like antispeciesism. Near-term efforts to reduce suffering can also positively influence long-term trajectories by shifting societal values. Further research into identifying and mitigating s-risks is crucial. – AI-generated abstract.