POPULATION growth has been recognised as one of current greatest threats to humanity. This was the outcome of a survey conducted by 50 Nobel Laureates.
The Nobel Laureates jointly responded to the question: “What is the biggest threat to humankind, in your view? And is there anything science can do to mitigate it?” during a
They were drawn from the field of Chemistry, Physics, Physiology, Medicine and Economics.
IMAGE CREDIT: Times Higher Education, 2017
Speaking, one of the Laureates noted that climate change in addition to providing sufficient food and fresh water for the growing global population, are serious problems facing humankind. He added: “Science is needed to address these problems and also to educate the public to create the political will to solve these problems.”
Other Laureates also cited environmental issues concerns over feeding and supplying water, as well as opposition to genetically-modified products given their potential to boost agricultural output.
Other threats mentioned as ranking lower compared to population growth included nuclear war, infectious disease breakouts, ignorant leaders including artificial intelligence.
Given these realities, some of the quick actions needed to be taken according to Editor, Times Higher Education, John Gill, involves a consensus that heading off these dangers requires political will and action, as well as the prioritisation of education on a global scale. Important of which, above all is for leaders to avoid the risk of inaction through complacency.”
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