]]>Are you getting bummed out reading about doom and gloom predictions? Edge asked 160 ‘thought leaders’ to share with us their answers to this years question, “What are you optimistic about? Why?”
The 160 responses to this year’s Edge Question span topics such as string theory, intelligence, population growth, cancer, climate and much much more. Contributing their optimistic visions are a who’s who of interesting and important world-class thinkers. Edge asked its hand-picked list of ‘thought leaders’ to reassure each other and the rest of us that we have reason to be optimistic. Edge.org
Ray Kurzweil
Kurzweil, who authored The Singularity Is Near: When Humans Transcend Biology, explains how when things keep doubling at a regular rate they approach infinity or zero. Computer’s increasing ability to “figure things out” will lead to answers for our many problems. The cost of solar energy, like the cost of calculators, will drop to levels cheaper than oil. Our new mastery of biology will allow us to “turn off” diseases and aging.
I’m Confident About Energy, the Environment, Longevity, and Wealth; I’m Optimistic (But Not Necessarily Confident) Of the Avoidance Of Existential Downsides; And I’m Hopeful (But Not Necessarily Optimistic) About a Repeat Of 9-11 (Or Worse) Ray Kurzweil
Therapeutic reading
Please consider reading some of the 160 contributions.
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