Introducing the Existential Risks Introductory Course (ERIC)

Abstract

The Existential Risks Introductory Course (ERIC), designed by the Cambridge Existential Risks Initiative, aims to introduce the field of existential risks without espousing any particular philosophy. The course curriculum is spread over eight weeks, focusing on topics such as anthropogenic risks, natural risks, biosecurity, unaligned artificial intelligence, dystopias, decision-making and different frameworks for existential risk. Evidence-based discussions and analyses sit at the core of the program, with sessions facilitated by subject matter experts. The course welcomes facilitators for its Winter 2022 run, calling participants from all backgrounds, and seeks suggestions to improve the blend of the curriculum and expand its reach. The goal is not only to widely spread knowledge and stimulate discussion about existential risks but also to prepare participants to infuse these considerations into their future career paths and everyday decision-making processes. – AI-generated abstract.