Tag Archives: billionaires

Billionaires Should Be Prohibited from Geoengineering the Planet

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Shutterstock/John D. Sahlin

Addressing climate change is a fundamentally collective effort. We share a single planet and atmosphere, meaning every emission of greenhouse gases impacts us all.

Notably, a small percentage of individuals have a disproportionate impact. The wealthiest 1% globally account for one-fifth of total emissions since 1990. A voluntary reduction in carbon footprints by the affluent could yield significant global benefits.

However, given our understanding of human behavior, such an outcome seems unlikely. But what if the affluent sought to balance carbon outputs through financing geoengineering projects designed to cool the planet? As explored in an exclusive survey of climate scientists (see “Exclusive: Climate scientists expect attempts to dim the sun by 2100”), there are unpredictable risks associated with such initiatives, potentially leading to adverse effects like droughts or ozone depletion.

Thus, if we are to engage in atmospheric modification, it must be pursued collectively. At present, there are no barriers preventing individuals or factions from attempting to unilaterally cool the Earth. This is why over 80% of respondents in our survey advocate for a global treaty to regulate potential climate interventions.

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The wealthiest 1% globally account for one-fifth of total emissions.
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Such a treaty would be among the many necessary updates to global governance in our era. Another domain where affluent individuals can exert significant influence is the night sky, which is increasingly cluttered with satellites that negatively affect the atmosphere (see How worried should we be about toxic chemicals from dead satellites?). With no global restrictions on satellite launches, the number has surged into the thousands, primarily driven by Elon Musk’s Starlink initiative.

International agreements lack the allure of dramatic, high-tech solutions often envisioned in science fiction, making it challenging to win support from billionaires. However, if they wish to contribute positively, endorsing international law would be a constructive starting point.

Source: www.newscientist.com

Democrats are targeting popular, unelected billionaires like Elon Musk in a shooting training exercise

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During most of the 17-minute interview, Elon Musk adhered to his agenda. He portrayed himself as a tech-savvy individual on a mission to “eliminate waste and fraud” in government.

Despite the significant backlash he faced, Musk claimed that his cost-cutting initiatives had made substantial progress, as he shared with Fox business commentator Larry Kudrow. He emphasized his goal to prevent America from going bankrupt.

However, Kudlow pushed Musk to consider the future. Would the concept of “government efficiency” (DOGE) still be relevant in a year? Musk acknowledged that his task was not entirely complete. He pointed to federal programs that support retirees, disabled individuals, and other social safety net initiatives as areas where significant spending could be reduced.

While Trump and Republicans have traditionally considered programs like Social Security, Medicaid, and Medicare as untouchable, Musk suggested they could become key targets for cuts, sparking backlash from Democrats.

Democrats criticized Musk for proposing cuts to programs that many vulnerable Americans depend on. Musk’s statements led to concerns about the potential loss of essential government services and benefits.

Despite the pushback, Musk received praise from Trump and Republicans for his work, but signs of concern among Republicans were becoming apparent.

In light of Musk’s proposals, Democrats and critics highlighted the potential negative impact on retirees and vulnerable Americans. Musk’s rhetoric around waste and fraud in federal programs drew skepticism from both sides of the political spectrum.

The White House issued a fact check in defense of Musk’s comments, emphasizing his commitment to eliminating waste while protecting American interests. Republicans also clarified that they were not considering cuts to Social Security, Medicare, or Medicaid.

As tensions and concerns around Musk’s proposals grew, Democrats wrestled with how to address his influence. Musk’s impact on various government programs and policies sparked a broader debate about the role of billionaires in shaping American politics.

The ongoing debate surrounding Musk’s involvement in government initiatives has raised concerns among Americans from diverse political backgrounds. The future of Musk’s influence and the implications of his proposals remain uncertain.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Introducing the Billionaire’s Unconventional and Lavish Doomsday Bunker

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Have you ever considered what your doomsday plan would entail? If not, you’re not alone. While most people are more concerned with what’s for dinner tomorrow than surviving the apocalypse, billionaires have already thought ahead.

Instead of spending millions on extending their lifespans, reversing aging, or planning space trips, the ultra-rich are now investing in giant underground shelters to prepare for the end of the world. These luxurious bunkers offer comfortable living conditions below the surface, away from the chaos above.

While doomsday bunkers are not a new concept, recent trends show that billionaire bunkers are becoming increasingly extravagant. From zombie-proof fire moats to 10-car garages, these shelters cater to the highest levels of luxury. It seems fitting, considering they will likely be located underground.

But what exactly are the ultra-rich preparing for? And what do these apocalyptic shelters look like?

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What are they preparing for?

Once seen as odd and paranoid, those who invest in shelters now have valid concerns about the future. The rise of artificial intelligence, pandemics, and global warming has instilled fear in many, even among the wealthiest individuals.

According to Douglas Rushkoff, a billionaire and writer who focuses on doomsday scenarios, the ultra-rich are not driven by fear but by desire. They see isolation in space stations or underground shelters as a reward for their accomplishments. It’s about winning the game of life and building the best shelter, not merely preparing for worst-case scenarios.

What do these bunkers look like?

End-of-life shelters come in various sizes, luxury levels, and features. Some are as small as a single room, while others resemble small apartments with amenities like garages, gyms, and saunas. The top-tier bunkers designed for billionaires include added rooms, tanks, and other necessary items, driving up prices significantly.

For many wealthy individuals, owning an island with a grand mansion on the surface conceals a maze of rooms underground for emergency situations. These bunkers serve as highly secure vacation homes with additional features for survival.

Will we all soon have bunkers?

While shelters were once exclusive to the ultra-rich and paranoid, the trend is shifting. Newer firms offer shelter options for a broader demographic, making it more accessible to average individuals. Popular group bunkers reminiscent of games like Fallout are also on the rise, accommodating large groups at a fraction of the cost of individual bunkers.

Architect Dante Vicino describes these group bunkers as underground cruise ships, with private and communal spaces for residents to gather, eat, and relax together. While luxury shelters may offer comfort during doomsday scenarios, building connections with neighbors and forming a community may be a more realistic survival strategy.

About our experts

Douglas Rushkoff is a writer and documentarian who has researched billionaire behavior and attitudes regarding doomsday scenarios.

Dante Vicino is the project lead at Vivos, a doomsday shelter company specializing in affordable alternatives.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com