Humanities research ideas for longtermists

Abstract

This work proposes a range of research projects suitable for individuals with humanities backgrounds in the context of longtermism, a philosophy concerned with improving the long-term future. Emphasizing the underrepresentation of humanities in longtermist discourse, which is predominantly influenced by STEM fields, the author curates ten recommended projects. These include studying future-oriented beliefs in religions, analyzing the transformation of incidental qualities into institutional essentials, and exploring fiction as a tool for moral circle expansion, among others. Each project is substantiated with detailed subtopics and potential research methodologies, aiming to utilize humanities perspectives to enrich longtermist strategies and enhance effective altruism initiatives. The suggested projects are framed to contribute to a diverse and multidisciplinary approach within the effective altruism community, addressing gaps and encouraging novel insights that could facilitate long-term societal resilience and ethical foresight. – AI-generated abstract.