Yuval Harari, a historian and author, issued a stark warning at the World Economic Forum in Davos. He cautioned that the world is failing to address the most pressing dangers, including technological disruption, nuclear war, and climate change. Harari emphasised the need for global cooperation to tackle these challenges, warning that nationalism could exacerbate problems.
Harari also predicted that technological advancements might result in a “useless class” of people, rendered redundant by automation and artificial intelligence. He expressed concern that data could become a tool of oppression, with tech giants and governments potentially using it to manipulate public behaviour. Harari stressed the importance of safeguarding individual privacy and maintaining democratic control over data.
Harari’s speech underlined the urgency of addressing climate change, calling it the most obvious threat to economic stability. He urged governments and businesses to take immediate action, criticising the lack of progress despite widespread acceptance of the problem.
Finally, Harari warned of the risk of nuclear war, stating that the crumbling of international alliances and the rise of nationalistic sentiments could increase the likelihood of such a catastrophe. He called for renewed efforts to maintain peace and stability, arguing that the costs of failure could be devastating.
Go to source article: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/01/yuval-hararis-warning-davos-speech-future-predications/