2023 Winners
First
Speaking idealistically, [the development of 3D printing (3DP)] could be the most significant one humanity will ever undergo– an elevation into a post-scarcity society. The Precipice defines human potential as “the set of all possible futures… including everything that humanity could eventually achieve.” By unshackling each individual from the demands of basic survival, 3DP not only promises to dramatically increase the standard of living for all, but also expand the capacity for humanity to spend time innovating and creating.
Andy Y, Michigan, USA
Second (19-21)
Reluctance to consider the far future in policy analysis is not merely a matter of philosophical disagreement over the worth of future people. There are moral and epistemic reasons to be wary of the conclusions drawn by Ord.
Tanae R, England, UK
Second (21-24)
I wrote a 20-page summary of The Precipice for my debate students to read and debate about. Most students thought that the normative claim that we should address existential risks is broadly correct … What they disagreed on the most was a descriptive thesis Ord presented: roughly, total existential risks within the next 100 years is 1 in 6.
Ricky H, Maine, USA
Second (13-18)
To uphold virtuous behavior, the Golden Mean requires being able to strike a balance between the excesses and deficiencies in character; however, AGI that can only work toward maximizing a certain outcome will be unable to strike this necessary balance.
Han N, Florida, USA
Third (13-18)
Beatrice M, Florida, USA
Third (13-18)
Carlos E, Philippines
Third (19-21)
Hriday U, Virginia, USA
Third (19-21)
Benjamin D, Maryland, USA
Third (22-24)
Ryan A, Singapore
Third (22-24)
Colin B, Indiana, USA