Key Takeaways:
- The 2026 "Doomsday Clock" has been set to 85 seconds to midnight, the closest it has ever been to a theoretical annihilation.
- The main risks to human existence include nuclear weapons, climate change, and new technologies like artificial intelligence.
- The scientists argue that AI is being used to spread disinformation and supercharge false information.
- The New START Treaty, which limits Russian deployed intercontinental-range nuclear weapons, is set to expire on February 4 without a clear signal of renewal.
- The scientists call on world leaders to take action to reduce the danger of nuclear proliferation and address the challenges posed by new technologies.
Introduction to the Doomsday Clock
The Doomsday Clock, a symbolic time set by the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, has been moved closer to midnight for the third time in five years. The clock now stands at 85 seconds to midnight, the closest it has ever been to a theoretical annihilation. This move is a stark reminder of the urgent need for action to address the pressing risks to human existence, including nuclear weapons, climate change, and new technologies like artificial intelligence. As President and CEO of the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, Alexandra Bell, said, "Every second counts, and we are running out of time. It is a hard truth, but this is our reality."
The Risks to Human Existence
The scientists who set the Doomsday Clock cited familiar risks to human existence, such as nuclear weapons and climate change, as well as new technologies like artificial intelligence. They argued that AI is being used to spread disinformation and supercharge false information, which poses a significant threat to humanity. Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Ressa noted that the world is living through "informational armageddon" thanks to the development of social media and generative AI, neither of which is "anchored in facts." As Ressa said, "Human beings have been commodified by a predatory and extractive industry." This highlights the need for urgent action to address the challenges posed by new technologies and to ensure that they are used for the benefit of humanity, rather than its detriment.
The New START Treaty and Nuclear Proliferation
The scientists also noted the recent conflicts between nuclear-armed states and called on the Trump Administration to reduce the danger of nuclear proliferation by reengaging with Russia. The New START Treaty, which limits Russian deployed intercontinental-range nuclear weapons, is set to expire on February 4 without a clear signal of renewal. This is a pressing concern, as the treaty is the last remaining agreement that limits all Russian deployed intercontinental-range nuclear weapons. As Science and Security Board member Jon B. Wolfsthal said, "This is a piece of low-hanging fruit that the Trump Administration should have seized months ago." The scientists argue that both countries could reach an agreement as soon as "today," and that it is essential to take action to reduce the danger of nuclear proliferation.
The Need for Action
Although the problems the world faces can feel overwhelming, the scientists argue that they are human-made and still solvable. As Bell said, "There is not a single elegant solution for any of the problems that we are facing, but these problems are solvable." The scientists emphasize that it is essential to have scientists and experts working to find solutions, and for the public to demand action from their leaders. As Bell noted, "Every time we’ve been able to turn back the hands of the clock, it’s been because we have scientists and experts working to find solutions, and the public was demanding action." This highlights the need for collective action and a commitment to working together to address the pressing challenges facing humanity.
The Importance of Leadership
The scientists also emphasized the importance of leadership in addressing the challenges posed by new technologies and nuclear proliferation. As Bell said, "No matter the government, a shift toward neo-imperialism, an Orwellian approach to governance would only serve to push the clock toward midnight." This highlights the need for leaders to take a responsible and informed approach to governance, and to prioritize the well-being of humanity over narrow national interests. The scientists argue that it is essential for leaders to work together to address the global challenges facing humanity, and to take action to reduce the danger of nuclear proliferation and the spread of disinformation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2026 Doomsday Clock has been set to 85 seconds to midnight, the closest it has ever been to a theoretical annihilation. The scientists who set the clock cited familiar risks to human existence, such as nuclear weapons and climate change, as well as new technologies like artificial intelligence. They emphasized the need for urgent action to address these challenges, and for leaders to work together to reduce the danger of nuclear proliferation and the spread of disinformation. As Bell said, "Every second counts, and we are running out of time." It is essential for humanity to take collective action to address the pressing challenges facing our world, and to work towards a more sustainable and equitable future for all.
https://time.com/7358249/doomsday-clock-midnight/
