Existential Risk

ɪɡˈzɪstənʃəl rɪsk

Existential risk refers to the potential events or scenarios that could lead to the extinction of humanity or the permanent and drastic reduction of its potential. These risks can arise from various sources, including advanced artificial intelligence, nuclear war, pandemics, and ecological collapse. Characteristics of existential risks include their low probability but high impact, making them particularly challenging to assess and mitigate. Common use cases for the study of existential risk involve interdisciplinary research aimed at understanding and preventing these threats, as well as informing policy decisions to safeguard the future of humanity.