Understanding Global Catastrophe Risks

The speaker reflects on childhood fears of nuclear war and the preparations made for such an event. However, the current greatest risk of global catastrophe is more likely to be a highly infectious virus rather than a war. This shift in threat is partly due to significant investments in nuclear deterrence, while comparatively little has been invested in systems to prevent epidemics.

What was the primary concern for global disaster during the speaker's childhood?

• Economic collapse

• Nuclear war

• Climate change

• Cyber attacks

According to the speaker, what is the most likely cause of a future global catastrophe?

• Natural disasters

• A highly infectious virus

• Economic crisis

• Nuclear war

What does the speaker suggest is more dangerous than missiles in the context of future global threats?

• Climate change

• Economic sanctions

• Microbes

• Cyber attacks

Why does the speaker believe we are more prepared for nuclear threats than epidemics?

• More investment in nuclear deterrence

• Better technology for detecting viruses

• Stronger international cooperation on health

• More public awareness about health risks

What does the speaker imply is necessary to prevent future epidemics?

• More nuclear weapons

• Better economic policies

• Stricter immigration policies

• Increased investment in epidemic prevention