Ray Dalio: The Rise and Fall of Empires Reveal History’s Cycles

An ancient pyramid in Egypt with modern cities in the distance illustrates the rise and fall of empires

Is history repeating itself? What can we learn from the rise and fall of past empires? According to Ray Dalio, the rise and fall of empires provide insights into the patterns that shape global powers. He outlines the three stages empires typically go through, from their emergence to their eventual decline. Keep reading to discover how these cycles might apply to our world today.

3 Types of Dystopian Futures: Toby Ord on Oppressive Societies

A sign on the side of the road in a mountainous area that says "DYSTOPIA AHEAD" illustrates dystopian futures

Are we heading toward a dystopian future? What can we learn from fictional dystopias to prevent real-world catastrophes? In The Precipice, Toby Ord writes that dystopian futures come in various forms, from enforced totalitarian regimes to unintended consequences of human actions. Writers and filmmakers have long explored these possibilities, offering insights into potential societal pitfalls. Keep reading to discover the three main types of dystopian futures and how they might unfold in our world.

3 Anthropogenic Threats to Humanity (Toby Ord’s The Precipice)

A fiery mushroom cloud from a nuclear bomb explosion illustrates anthropogenic threats to humanity

Are we on the brink of a human-made disaster? What catastrophic threats to our existence could be our own fault? Toby Ord’s book The Precipice explores the dangers posed by anthropogenic threats. He speculates on the potential consequences of nuclear weapons, climate change, and environmental damage. These human-driven risks could lead to civilization collapse or even extinction. Keep reading to get Ord’s take on these potential existential challenges.

White Male Supremacy: From Cowboys to Congress (Ijeoma Oluo)

Several men in business suits in a corporate, academic, or governmental setting illustrate white male supremacy

Why do some people regard certain groups as criminals or terrorists? Why is Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez criticized? In Mediocre, Ijeoma Oluo provides an eye-opening exploration of white male supremacy in the United States. She discusses the mythology of violence, examines the monopoly on power, and uncovers the tactics used to maintain dominance. Read more to get Oluo’s take on the dynamics of white male supremacy.

How to Save Humanity: Strategies to Neutralize Existential Risks

A life preserver in outer space floating toward Earth illustrates how to save humanity

Are we on the brink of extinction? Can humanity be saved from existential threats? Toby Ord’s book The Precipice explores these pressing questions. He outlines potential catastrophes and offers strategies to prevent them. Ord believes we can take steps to avoid disaster and reach our full potential as a species. Read on to discover how to save humanity and secure a brighter future for generations to come.

What Is the Future of Humanity? It Depends on What We Do

The words "THE FUTURE" seen through a telescope illustrates the question, What is the future of humanity?

What is the future of humanity? Are we on the brink of disaster—or at the cusp of unprecedented progress? Toby Ord’s perspective on humanity’s potential and risks offers a thought-provoking glimpse into our species’ trajectory. He explores our remarkable achievements, technological advancements, and the looming threats that could derail our progress. Keep reading for a journey through time, technology, and the human condition as we explore what the future of humanity might hold.

Bernie Bros: How White Men Hijacked a Progressive Movement

Young men at a political rally with blue signs that say "Bernie" illustrate Bernie Bros

Who were Bernie Bros? What did they reveal about American society, and what difference did they make? Ijeoma Oluo explores the phenomenon of white men hijacking social causes in her analysis of the 2016 US Presidential election. She focuses on a group of Bernie Sanders supporters dubbed “Bernie Bros,” examining their motivations and impact on progressive politics. Keep reading to discover how Bernie Bros shed light on broader issues of race, gender, and class in social movements.

Existential Threats to Humanity: Are We on the Precipice?

A globe teetering on the edge of a cliff in desert mountains illustrates existential threats to humanity

Is humanity on the brink of extinction? Can we do anything to safeguard our future? Toby Ord’s book The Precipice explores existential threats to humanity, from natural disasters to man-made catastrophes. He delves into current risks such as nuclear weapons and climate change, as well as potential future dangers such as pandemics and artificial intelligence. Keep reading for a sobering yet crucial exploration of the challenges facing humanity.

How to Counteract the Negative Effects of Ultra-Processed Food

A billboard next to a highway that shows a bowl of chips with a red X through it, showing what can be done to stop the effects of ultra-processed foods

How can governments and individuals fight the effects of ultra-processed foods? In what ways should marketing for UPFs be changed? Most food is processed to some extent. Even baking bread or making a smoothie in the blender are forms of processing. But ultra-processed food is different. Ultra-processing doesn’t just modify food—it transforms food into something else entirely. Here’s what can be done to fight against the prevalence of UPFs.