When you think about the future, how far does your imagination take you? Next year, century, half a million years? In this episode, Will MacAskill introduces us to “The Long Run,” suggesting that we have a moral responsibility to the people who will live after us, since their numbers will be far greater than those living now or who lived before us. Host Russ Roberts asks provocative questions that will undoubtedly have you wondering…what Do We owe it to the future? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
1. In the opening thought experiment that Ross read, what images came to mind about living other people's lives in the proposed long future? What worries you most and what comes to mind when you imagine the world in which the majority of humanity is likely to live?
2- Billions of people who live after us are likely to become materially wealthier, thanks to our basic efforts. MacAskill believes we have a moral responsibility to preserve the opportunity to thrive for future generations. What makes the difference? they Wealth and prosperity and why do you think each is important?
3- MacAskill points out Great gods In world religions as heresy. How does this relate to free riding? Do you worry about an increasingly atheist or agnostic world? Why and why not?
4- How does MacAskill's thought experiment on catastrophic population destruction explain Smith's gains from the division of labor? What remaining population numbers would be necessary to achieve gains from trade volume?
5- What do you think of MacAskill's view on preference and satisfaction: living for positive conscious experiences – such as happiness, joy, bliss, and meaningful moments – and avoiding negative experiences – such as suffering, misery, and depression? Does this view contradict societies that encourage ethical entrepreneurs like Benjamin Lay? He explains.
