Comment on 'Problems with EA representativeness and how to solve it'

Abstract

Ten reasons to work on near-term causes include both perceived importance over long-term causes and practical motivations. These reasons can be categorized based on a negative future outlook, diverging beliefs on population ethics, doubts about applying expected value to low-probability scenarios, difficulty in predicting long-term impacts, and skepticism about the urgency of AI concerns. On the practical side, the potential to make a substantial impact in the present could justify a focus on short-term efforts. The quicker feedback from near-term initiatives can offer valuable lessons for long-term work. Personal compatibility, related to technical expertise or contribution means, can also drive one towards near-term involvement. Some individuals may find spiritual fulfillment in addressing immediate issues or feel driven by more palpable motivation sources, such as witnessing animal suffering. Public image or recruitment advantages also present a valid case for taking up near-term work. These views, however, are not necessarily endorsed. – AI-generated abstract.