Expand vs fight in social justice, fertility, bioconservatism, & AI risk

Abstract

The author argues that, in social and political discussions, individuals should focus on expanding the space of possibilities rather than fighting over existing resources. This preference for expansion over fighting is rooted in standard economic analysis, where policies that increase efficiency and discourage rent-seeking are deemed desirable. The author highlights the common tendency for individuals to engage in “fights” over various social and political issues, such as social justice, fertility, education, bioconservatism, and AI risk. The author claims that these fights are often driven by emotional energy and a desire to help “us” win against “them,” rather than by a genuine commitment to expanding the space of possibilities for everyone. The author criticizes the use of “market failure” arguments to justify these fights, suggesting that many of these concerns are simply rooted in a desire to control others’ choices without a strong basis in actual market failures. Instead of engaging in such fights, the author advocates for a focus on expanding possibilities through collaboration and compromise. – AI-generated abstract.