Measuring What Matters in the Era of Global Warming and the Age of Algorithmic Promises

Abstract

The future has already arrived in the form of our children. These children are raising their voices all around the world, demanding policy makers and technologists take the necessary steps to secure their futures. This includes utilizing emerging technologies in a way that prioritizes people and planet over power and profits. At a physical level, human well being is critically dependent on environmental sustainability. Beyond questions of happiness or mood, basic human flourishing means having access to potable water and clean air. Our symbiotic relationship with nature, however, has been severely damaged due to actions that have resulted in a climate crisis that, if not immediately addressed, will lead to irreversible ecological and human devastation. A combination of a courageous socioeconomic transformation and accelerated technological innovation is necessary to mitigate this threat. For more information on this and other similar topics, visit https://ethicsinaction.ieee.org/