The End of the World: The Science and Ethics of Human Extinction

The End of the World: The Science and Ethics of Human Extinction

by JohnLeslie (Author)

Synopsis

Are we in imminent danger of extinction? Yes, we probably are, argues John Leslie in his chilling account of the dangers facing the human race as we approach the second millenium.
The End of the World is a sobering assessment of the many disasters that scientists have predicted and speculated on as leading to apocalypse. In the first comprehensive survey, potential catastrophes - ranging from deadly diseases to high-energy physics experiments - are explored to help us understand the risks.
One of the greatest threats facing humankind, however, is the insurmountable fact that we are a relatively young species, a risk which is at the heart of the 'Doomsday Argument'. This argument, if correct, makes the dangers we face more serious than we could have ever imagined. This more than anything makes the arrogance and ignorance of politicians, and indeed philosophers, so disturbing as they continue to ignore the manifest dangers facing future generations.

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More Information

Format: Illustrated
Pages: 328
Edition: 1
Publisher: Routledge
Published: 19 Apr 1998

ISBN 10: 0415184479
ISBN 13: 9780415184472

Media Reviews
With his distinct and highly readable style, Leslie offers a fascinating glimpse of the power of human reasoning to deduce our place in the universe.
-Paul Davies, author of The Last Three Minutes
This book is vintage John Leslie . . . one of the most original and interesting thinkers writing today.
-Quentin Smith, Western Michigan University
John Leslie goes where others fear to tread and brings back pure gold.
-Nicholas Rescher, University of Pittsburgh ...a book of high moral seriousness and unexpectedly clear and lively writing...a book about world destruction directed mainly at academic philosophers.