Abstract

Abstract

Our Earth has existed for 45 million centuries. But this century is special; it’s the first when one species — ours – can determine the fate of our entire biosphere. We are vulnerable to environmental threats from a growing and more demanding human population, and the misuse of powerful new technologies can have catastrophic consequences that cascade globally.

The seminar will explore these issues and conclude by venturing an astronomical perspective and a longer time-horizon. How special is Earth in a cosmic context? What prospects might the far-future hold?

Bio

Lord Rees of Ludlow OM FRS

Astronomer Royal, co-founder of the Centre for the Study of Existential Risk, Emeritus Professor of Cosmology and Astrophysics, Cambridge Fellow and 38th Master of Trinity College, Cambridge. Author of If Science is to Save Us, and 10 other books. 60th President of the Royal Society.

Register here

Please note that in the event that numbers are high, an overflow hall will be used for video coverage once all seats are taken in the Bradfield Room. We advise arriving early.