Frequently Asked Questions

Abstract

This FAQ addresses common questions and objections to longtermism. Longtermism is the view that positively influencing the long-term future is a key moral priority of our time. While seemingly obvious, the full implications of longtermism required recent scientific and philosophical insights. This FAQ explains how our actions can predictably affect the future, the relationship between longtermism and utilitarianism, and why a focus on humanity doesn’t preclude concern for animals or nature. It also addresses concerns about the demandingness of longtermism, its relationship with effective altruism, the possibility of human extinction, the role of low-probability, high-impact events, and the potential for longtermism to be misused to justify harmful political actions. Finally, it discusses why climate change, despite its importance, might receive relatively less attention from longtermists compared to other, potentially more neglected and impactful, issues. – AI-generated abstract.