Complex risks in complex systems

PRIMUS 22/HUM/020

The project studies large-scale and existential risks that could fundamentally change the trajectory of human civilization. Existing research concludes that the largest risks we are currently facing are anthropogenic, and often related to the increasing power of technology not accompanied by increased cooperation and wisdom [Ord: The Precipice, 2020]. The focus of the project is on novel, large-scale and complex risks related to interaction of rapidly developing technology with humans, such as deterioration of the environment or gradual decrease of human influence over crucial decisions. The initial scope of the research group includes study of cooperation and conflict in complex systems and networks, epistemics of information processed by AI systems, and the current "epistemic crisis" - a situation where large parts of society are unable to converge on a coherent view of facts.