Luisa Rodriguez on why global catastrophes seem unlikely to kill us all
80,000 Hours, November 19, 2021
Abstract
Despite the dreadful prospect of human extinction following a global catastrophe, a detailed examination reveals that the odds of humanity’s recovery and eventual rebuilding are higher than anticipated. Luisa Rodriguez’s research suggests that the effects of catastrophes are often non-uniform, with certain regions remaining largely unaffected, ensuring the survival of some populations. Even in more severe scenarios involving widespread population loss, her analysis indicates that as few as 300 survivors could potentially restore humanity’s population within a reasonable timeframe. Rodriguez also emphasizes the value of preserving knowledge and resources, proposing deliberate stockpiles of seeds, tools, and books to aid in post-catastrophe survival. Additionally, she recommends increasing food reserves and researching alternative food sources. By understanding the dynamics of survival, adaptability, and the inherent resilience of human ingenuity, we can better prepare for and mitigate potential risks to the continuity of our species. – AI-generated abstract.
