Survival of our species/Risks to humanity
From AdCiv
Potential threats to humanity:
- Genetically engineered biological weapon or lab-experiment let loose (accidentally or maliciously). Possible at any time.
- Out of control self-replicating molecular nanotechnology (accidental or malicious). Underlying technology is perhaps 15 years away.
- Out of control artificial intelligence. Underlying technology is perhaps 20 years away.
- Strike by asteroid or comet. Possible at any time. Accepted in scientific community as not an 'if' but a 'when'.
- Global war with nuclear or other advanced weaponry. Possible at any time.
- Super-volcanic geological activity. Not sure that the risk is known.
- Climate change. It is more likely to affect other species that do not have the means to adapt first. But if it gets to the point where it affects species we rely on for our own survival then we will be at risk. Possible in the near future.