A precise exploration of existential risks

A fascinating book on a heady subject. I find that authors occasionally struggle when trying to thread the needle between usefulness and accessability, but Ord has no such issues. This works' tone and flow resembles that of an extended essay, and this is a particularly masterful one. In terms of feel and clarity of thought, this book reminded me most of Enlightenment texts by the likes of Thomas Paine. Ord's language is always only as technical as it needs to be, but without ever becoming so oversimplified as to be patronising. Regarding the book's structure, approximately the first quarter of the book is concerned with setting out the exact parameters of this exploration of existential risk. The second and third quarters are concerned with the identity and likelihood of the risks themselves. The fourth quarter is concerned with what I can only describe as 'an appeal to a better future'. Perhaps it is because I am already overwhelmingly in agreement with Ord before starting this book, but this final set of chapters is much weaker and more speculative than those that preceded it, and is the only reason this book doesn't rate a perfect score from me. But overall, this is a supremely worthy text for anyone who is interested in humanity's long-term future. Listening to it gives one what you might describe as 'a heady dose of perspective', which is something we certainly need more of.

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Thought provoking

The Precipice by Toby Ord is a thought-provoking and meticulously researched exploration of the existential risks humanity faces. Ord masterfully balances optimism with urgency, presenting a compelling argument for why safeguarding our future is one of the most critical challenges of our time. His ability to distill complex ideas into accessible prose makes this book both enlightening and engaging. A call to action for anyone who cares about the survival and flourishing of humanity, The Precipice is a must-read for those seeking a deeper understanding of the stakes and opportunities of our era.

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Broad and deep assessment of existential risks

Excellent analysis and thorough understanding of megatrends. Unusual in appraising each with statistical rigour leading to recommendations and actions we should take.

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The future of humanity

A thoroughly researched and well argued work, brimming with information and insights. One of its most admirable qualities is that it is, quite deliberately, not the final word on the matter.

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An immensely important book

Toby Ord lays out, elegantly, carefully, and passionately, the case for not safeguarding our future being a critical priority, and some steps towards how we do it.

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A book everyone should read

I was aware of a good bit of the content already from different books hit it didn't substract from this at all. The author does a fantastic job at bringing all the elements into a common currency, so you can clearly see and compare the different risks we face. What I enjoyed even more was the picture he paints of our potential, the possibility of our nearly endless discovery of the cosmos and the near infinity we have to do it, if we don't f**k up right now.

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Tour de Force!

Excellent survey of the threats to human survival and what could or should be done to counter them. And the final chapter is a lyrical inspiring clarion call as to why humanity needs s grand strategy to maximise its potential.

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All of it.

As a Philosopher, I thought that Toby had done really well as PHYSICIST. He had certainly done his Homework. A jolly good read, or listen.

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Very insightful

I would definitely recommend this book. Really eye opening and insightful. Something everyone should read.

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A neglected story, an inspiring framing

Subject: the past, present and future (maybe) of humanity/earth-based life. Contents: profound insights, thoroughly researched ideas, transparent reasoning, thoughtful conclusions; a compelling story and vision for humanity. Significance: simultaneously obvious and profound; a clear statement of ideas with huge importance and universal appeal; ideas which are currently shockingly neglected.

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