The problem with telling people the world is ending
This article examines the psychological and practical impact of 'doomerism' in climate and AI discourse. It argues that while existential warnings are intended to spur action, excessive alarmism may lead to public paralysis.
Why it matters
It addresses the critical challenge of effective communication in the face of complex, existential global threats.
Illustration: Elia Barbieri Illustration: Elia Barbieri The big idea Climate crisis The problem with telling people the world is ending In the face of terrible crises, it can feel right to shock people into action. But what if that has the opposite effect?
Prefer the Guardian on Google T hese days, it’s easy to succumb to hopelessness. Whether you’re thinking about the climate crisis, the prospect of AI apocalypse, war or political turmoil, the list of challenges facing humanity can seem insurmountable.
It certainly feels unprecedented, and much of it may be. The sense of impending doom, on the other hand, is nothing new. And what we have learned from the past is that doomerism can lead to paralysis. If everyone freezes, then nothing changes – but if we want to have a chance of mitigating some of the threats I’ve mentioned then action is what’s required.
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