Today's Read Team 
Unpacking Adam Becker’s ‘More Everything Forever’
In his thought-provoking new book, More Everything Forever: AI Overlords, Space Empires, and Silicon Valley’s Crusade to Control the Fate of Humanity, science journalist Adam Becker challenges prevalent narratives put forth by influential tech figures regarding humanity’s future in space and the role of artificial intelligence (AI).
The Reality of Martian Colonization
One of the central discussions in Becker’s work revolves around the ambitious vision of establishing a human presence on Mars. Tech moguls like Elon Musk envision this as a necessity for the survival of humanity, suggesting that within the next two decades, millions could inhabit the Red Planet. Becker, however, disputes this rosy outlook, asserting that life on Mars is unlikely to be sustainable or enjoyable.
- Radiation Hazards: Mars is bombarded with harmful radiation that poses significant health risks.
- Toxic Environment: The planet’s air is not only thin but also harshly toxic, making it lethal without proper containment.
- Logistical Challenges: Creating self-sufficient habitats on Mars poses daunting engineering challenges, compounded by the need for regular supplies from Earth.
Becker argues that even with advanced engineering solutions, life on Mars would be akin to living in cramped, pressurized spaces suit—a far cry from the adventurous frontier many may fantasize about. As he poignantly notes, “Mars would make Antarctica look like Tahiti.”
The Ideology of Technological Salvation
Throughout the book, Becker observes a recurring theme among Silicon Valley’s elite, whom he describes as driven by what he terms the “ideology of technological salvation.” He identifies three core characteristics of this mindset:
- Reductionism: Simplifying complex global issues into problems that can be solved through technological means.
- Profit Motive: Aligning technological advancements with the goal of perpetual economic growth.
- Transcendence: Promising an escape from current limitations and moral dilemmas via imagined technological breakthroughs.
These ideologies create a dichotomy of futures—either a utopian paradise or total annihilation—often leading to exaggerated fears and hopes surrounding artificial intelligence. Becker critically examines prominent voices in the AI debate, highlighting the extremes advocated by both techno-optimists, like Ray Kurzweil, and doomsayers concerned about AI’s potential to overtake humanity.
Silicon Valley’s Focus on Distant Futures
Despite the allure of groundbreaking technological advancements, Becker argues that many of today’s pressing socio-economic issues, such as poverty and inequality, are overlooked. Instead, the fixation remains on sci-fi scenarios surrounding existential threats, such as catastrophic AI outcomes or doomed space colonization.
Becker shines a light on the effective altruism movement, which has garnered substantial financial backing from tech billionaires. This movement prioritizes data and reasoning in philanthropic activities, yet Becker points out its sometimes bizarre long-term calculations. For instance, a study suggested that investments in AI safety could yield massive future benefits, drastically outweighing the immediate impacts of humanitarian efforts like combating malaria.
Confronting the Fear of Mortality
At its core, the “ideology of technological salvation” is intertwined with an archetypal human fear: the fear of death. Becker cites various authors who argue that Silicon Valley’s ambitions are a reflection of a deep-seated anxiety about existential risk, masked as a quest for ultimate progress. Notably, Kate Crawford remarks that “Space has become the ultimate imperial ambition,” symbolizing a drive to transcend earthly limitations.
A Call for Compassion
Amidst his critiques, Becker’s narrative underscores a vital message: genuine compassion and focus on the present are essential. Rather than fixate on distant galaxies and hypothetical futures, he advocates for concentrated efforts to improve our current world.
As Becker eloquently concludes, “We are here now, in a world filled with more than we could ever reasonably ask for. We can take joy in that, and find satisfaction and meaning in making this world just a little bit better for everyone and everything on it, regardless of the ultimate fate of the cosmos.”
Becker’s More Everything Forever serves as a striking reminder that while technology may offer alluring possibilities, our most pressing challenges demand attention today.
Published by: Basic Books | Pages: 367 | Price: $32