The long view: Essays on policy, philanthropy, and the long-term future

Abstract

This book provides a comprehensive overview of longtermism, the view that it is particularly important to act to safeguard the well-being of future generations. It articulates the moral imperative of taking the long term into account in decision-making, and provides a thorough overview of the various barriers to long-term thinking, especially in government. It outlines several promising avenues for institutional reform, including the creation of government-funded research institutions dedicated to long-term planning, the institution of posterity impact assessments, the creation of citizens’ assemblies focused on future generations, and the establishment of a legislative house specifically dedicated to the needs of future generations. This book also discusses specific problem areas in need of long-term solutions, such as the risks from biosecurity, climate change, and artificial intelligence. The volume concludes with an examination of the importance of long-term cultural change to ensure that we are not only capable of ensuring a viable, open, and aspirational future, but are also compelled to do so. – AI-generated abstract