First trials are ongoing or on their way and a growing number of countries are considering UBI as an alternative to welfare.

First trials are ongoing or on their way and a growing number of countries are considering UBI as an alternative to welfare .


How would it work and what are the key arguments for and against?

How would it work and what are the key arguments for and against ?


Right now people can't really agree what Universal Basic Income is or should be.

Right now people ca n't really agree what Universal Basic Income is or should be .


Some want to use it to eliminate welfare and cut bureaucracy.

Some want to use it to eliminate welfare and cut bureaucracy .


Others want it as a free extra for existing programs or even want it to be so high that work itself becomes optional.

Others want it as a free extra for existing programs or even want it to be so high that work itself becomes optional .


For this video we'll talk mostly about the minimum basic income, enough money to be above the poverty line.

For this video we 'll talk mostly about the minimum basic income , enough money to be above the poverty line .


In the US this means about $1,000 a month or $12,000 a year.

In the US this means about $ 1,000 a month or $ 12,000 a year .


The money would not be taxed and you could do whatever you wanted with it.

The money would not be taxed and you could do whatever you wanted with it .


In this scenario UBI is a way of transferring the wealth of a society while still keeping the free market intact.

In this scenario UBI is a way of transferring the wealth of a society while still keeping the free market intact .


But if we hand out free money, will people just spend it on booze and stop working?

But if we hand out free money , will people just spend it on booze and stop working ?


A 2013 study by the World Bank specifically examined if poor people waste their handouts on tobacco and alcohol if they receive it in the form of cash.

A 2013 study by the World Bank specifically examined if poor people waste their handouts on tobacco and alcohol if they receive it in the form of cash .


The opposite is true.


Other studies have shown that the richer you are, the more drugs and alcohol you consume.

Other studies have shown that the richer you are , the more drugs and alcohol you consume .


The lazy and drunk poor person is a stereotype rather than reality.

The lazy and drunk poor person is a stereotype rather than reality .


Universal basic income test runs done in Canada in the 1970s showed that around 1% of the recipients stopped working, mostly to take care of their kids.

Universal basic income test runs done in Canada in the 1970s showed that around 1 % of the recipients stopped working , mostly to take care of their kids .


On average people reduced their working hours by less than 10%.

On average people reduced their working hours by less than 10 % .


The extra time was used to achieve goals like going back to school or looking for better jobs.

The extra time was used to achieve goals like going back to school or looking for better jobs .


But if laziness and drugs are not a huge deal, why doesn't our current welfare state solve poverty?

But if laziness and drugs are not a huge deal , why does n't our current welfare state solve poverty ?


Welfare or unemployment programs often come with a lot of strings attached, like taking part in courses,

Welfare or unemployment programs often come with a lot of strings attached , like taking part in courses ,


Besides the loss of personal freedom, these conditions are often a huge waste of time and only serve to make the unemployment statistics seem less bad.

Besides the loss of personal freedom , these conditions are often a huge waste of time and only serve to make the unemployment statistics seem less bad .


Often your time would be much better spent looking for the right job, continuing education or starting a business.

Often your time would be much better spent looking for the right job , continuing education or starting a business .


Another unwanted side effect of many welfare programs is that they trap people in poverty and promote passive behavior.

Another unwanted side effect of many welfare programs is that they trap people in poverty and promote passive behavior .


Imagine a benefit of $1,000 each month.

Imagine a benefit of $ 1,000 each month .


In a lot of programs, if you earn a single dollar extra, the whole thing is taken away.

In a lot of programs , if you earn a single dollar extra , the whole thing is taken away .


If you take a job that's paying $1,200, you might not only lose your benefits,

If you take a job that 's paying $ 1,200 , you might not only lose your benefits ,


but because of your taxes and other costs like transportation, you might end up having less money than before.

but because of your taxes and other costs like transportation , you might end up having less money than before .


welfare can create a ceiling that traps people in poverty and rewards passive behavior.

welfare can create a ceiling that traps people in poverty and rewards passive behavior .


A basic income can never be cut and therefore getting a job and additional income will always make your financial situation better.

A basic income can never be cut and therefore getting a job and additional income will always make your financial situation better .


Work is always rewarded.


Instead of a ceiling, it creates a floor from which people can lift themselves up.

Instead of a ceiling , it creates a floor from which people can lift themselves up .


But even if UBI is the better model, is it economically feasible?

But even if UBI is the better model , is it economically feasible ?


Won't prices just rise, making everything just like it was before?

Wo n't prices just rise , making everything just like it was before ?


Since the money is not being created by magic or printers, it needs to be transferred from somewhere.

Since the money is not being created by magic or printers , it needs to be transferred from somewhere .


It's more of a shift of funds than the creation of new ones.

It 's more of a shift of funds than the creation of new ones .


Okay, but how do we pay for it?


There's no right answer here because the world is too diverse.

There 's no right answer here because the world is too diverse .


How well-off a country is, what the local values are.

How well - off a country is , what the local values are .


Are things like high taxes or cutting the defense budget politically acceptable or not?

Are things like high taxes or cutting the defense budget politically acceptable or not ?


How much welfare state is already in place and is it effective?

How much welfare state is already in place and is it effective ?


Each country has its own individual path to a UBI.

Each country has its own individual path to a UBI .


The easiest way to pay for a UBI is to end all welfare and use the free funds to finance it.

The easiest way to pay for a UBI is to end all welfare and use the free funds to finance it .


Not only would this make a number of government agencies disappear, which in itself saves money, it would also eliminate a lot of bureaucracy.

Not only would this make a number of government agencies disappear , which in itself saves money , it would also eliminate a lot of bureaucracy .


On the other hand, cutting them could leave many people worse off than before.

On the other hand , cutting them could leave many people worse off than before .


If the goal is to have a foundation for everybody, there still need to be programs of some sort because just like countries, people are not the same.

If the goal is to have a foundation for everybody , there still need to be programs of some sort because just like countries , people are not the same .


In the US, for example, there's been a lot of economic growth, but most of the benefits from it have gone to the richest few percent.

In the US , for example , there 's been a lot of economic growth , but most of the benefits from it have gone to the richest few percent .


The wealth gap is rapidly widening and many argue that it might be time to distribute the spoils more evenly to preserve the social peace.

The wealth gap is rapidly widening and many argue that it might be time to distribute the spoils more evenly to preserve the social peace .


There could be taxes on financial transactions, capital, land value, carbon or even robots.

There could be taxes on financial transactions , capital , land value , carbon or even robots .


But UBI is not necessarily expensive.


According to a recent study, a UBI of $1,000 per month in the US could actually grow the GDP by 12% over 8 years

According to a recent study , a UBI of $ 1,000 per month in the US could actually grow the GDP by 12 % over 8 years


because it would enable poor people to spend more and increase overall demand.

because it would enable poor people to spend more and increase overall demand .


Who will work in the fields, crawl through sewers or lift pianos?

Who will work in the fields , crawl through sewers or lift pianos ?


If you don't need to for survival, will people still do hard, boring and unfulfilling labor?

If you do n't need to for survival , will people still do hard , boring and unfulfilling labor ?


UBI might give them enough leverage to demand better pay and working conditions.

UBI might give them enough leverage to demand better pay and working conditions .


A study calculated that every extra dollar going to wage earners would add about $1.21 to the national economy,

A study calculated that every extra dollar going to wage earners would add about $ 1.21 to the national economy ,


while every extra dollar going to high-income Americans would add only 39 cents.

while every extra dollar going to high - income Americans would add only 39 cents .


There would still be very rich and poor people, but we could eliminate fear, suffering and existential panic for a significant part of the population.

There would still be very rich and poor people , but we could eliminate fear , suffering and existential panic for a significant part of the population .


Making poor citizens better off could be a smart economic tactic.

Making poor citizens better off could be a smart economic tactic .


For some, this isn't enough.


They want a UBI large enough to live a middle-class existence.

They want a UBI large enough to live a middle - class existence .


If we set the financial obstacle aside, this idea fundamentally challenges how our society is constructed.

If we set the financial obstacle aside , this idea fundamentally challenges how our society is constructed .


By earning money, you earn the possibility to take part in society.

By earning money , you earn the possibility to take part in society .


This determines your status and options, but it also forces many people into spending huge chunks of their time on things they don't care about.

This determines your status and options , but it also forces many people into spending huge chunks of their time on things they do n't care about .


In 2016, only 33% of US employees were engaged at work, 16% were actively miserable and the remaining 51% were only physically present.

In 2016 , only 33 % of US employees were engaged at work , 16 % were actively miserable and the remaining 51 % were only physically present .


Would 67% of people stop working if they could?

Would 67 % of people stop working if they could ?


It would be unfair to portray work as just a chore.

It would be unfair to portray work as just a chore .


Work gives us something to do.


It challenges us, it motivates us to improve, it forces us to engage.

It challenges us , it motivates us to improve , it forces us to engage .


Many find friends or partners at work.


We work for social status, wealth and our place in the world.

We work for social status , wealth and our place in the world .


We're looking for something to do with our lives.

We 're looking for something to do with our lives .


And for many people, work gives them meaning.

And for many people , work gives them meaning .


There are other concerns with UBI.


If all welfare programs were exchanged for one single payment, this gives the government a lot of leverage.

If all welfare programs were exchanged for one single payment , this gives the government a lot of leverage .


Individual programs are easier to attack or cut than a multitude.

Individual programs are easier to attack or cut than a multitude .


Or populists might promise drastic changes to the UBI to get into power.

Or populists might promise drastic changes to the UBI to get into power .


And a universal basic income doesn't tackle all problems when it comes to inequality.

And a universal basic income does n't tackle all problems when it comes to inequality .


While $1,000 might be great in the countryside, it's not a lot for expensive metropolitan areas,

While $ 1,000 might be great in the countryside , it 's not a lot for expensive metropolitan areas ,


And of course, for some people, the concept of work itself not being essential for survival is appalling.

And of course , for some people , the concept of work itself not being essential for survival is appalling .


So is the universal basic income a good idea?

So is the universal basic income a good idea ?


The honest answer is that we don't know yet.

The honest answer is that we do n't know yet .


We need to think about what kind of UBI we want and what we're prepared to give up to pay for it.

We need to think about what kind of UBI we want and what we 're prepared to give up to pay for it .


The potential is huge.


It might be the most promising model to sustainably eliminate poverty.

It might be the most promising model to sustainably eliminate poverty .


It might seriously reduce the amount of desperation in the world and make us all much less stressed out.

It might seriously reduce the amount of desperation in the world and make us all much less stressed out .


This video was made possible by a universal basic income provided by you, our viewers.

This video was made possible by a universal basic income provided by you , our viewers .


10,000 people around the world gift us a monthly income on patreon.com/kurzgesagt.

10,000 people around the world gift us a monthly income on patreon.com/kurzgesagt .


You enable us to pay salaries and buy new hardware.

You enable us to pay salaries and buy new hardware .


You enable us to make more videos and you enable us to spend more time on them.

You enable us to make more videos and you enable us to spend more time on them .


Kurzgesagt would truly not be what it is today without your help.

Kurzgesagt would truly not be what it is today without your help .


You help us stay independent and you give us the freedom to put quality before quantity.

You help us stay independent and you give us the freedom to put quality before quantity .


Thank you so much.


Are you alone in the universe?


Or are you connected to anything?


First of all, you're part of a group of mammals that's still very young, but we can make YouTube videos already and build large hadron colliders.

First of all , you 're part of a group of mammals that 's still very young , but we can make YouTube videos already and build large hadron colliders .


We've also split the atom and invented Pokemon.

We 've also split the atom and invented Pokemon .


We stem from an ancient life form that began living about three and a half billion years ago.

We stem from an ancient life form that began living about three and a half billion years ago .


We feel like we're in control of this planet, but we aren't really.

We feel like we 're in control of this planet , but we are n't really .


One little asteroid or one creative virus is really all it would take to kill us off for good.

One little asteroid or one creative virus is really all it would take to kill us off for good .


Humanity credits itself with being able to destroy the planet,

Humanity credits itself with being able to destroy the planet ,


but even with all our nuclear toys, we would probably just cause a huge mass extinction at best.

but even with all our nuclear toys , we would probably just cause a huge mass extinction at best .


Maybe we could kill 90% of everything living on this planet.

Maybe we could kill 90 % of everything living on this planet .


A few million years later, life would be back everywhere.

A few million years later , life would be back everywhere .


Most microscopic life and life below the surface wouldn't even be disturbed that much probably.

Most microscopic life and life below the surface would n't even be disturbed that much probably .


On a geological timescale, our impact on Earth is kind of laughable.

On a geological timescale , our impact on Earth is kind of laughable .


We're actually not that powerful.


We live on this tiny wet rock that speeds through space following a massive ball of burning plasma.

We live on this tiny wet rock that speeds through space following a massive ball of burning plasma .


One day, this ball of plasma will stop burning and most likely kill us in the process.

One day , this ball of plasma will stop burning and most likely kill us in the process .


If we survive the death of the Sun and colonize the galaxy, theoretically, we could survive until the last star in the universe goes out.

If we survive the death of the Sun and colonize the galaxy , theoretically , we could survive until the last star in the universe goes out .


After that, life becomes pretty impossible.

After that , life becomes pretty impossible .


Okay, so everything has an end.


Where does this leave you as an individual?

Where does this leave you as an individual ?


At one point in your life, for about half an hour, you were only one single cell inside your mother's womb.

At one point in your life , for about half an hour , you were only one single cell inside your mother 's womb .


Today, you consist of about 50 trillion cells.

Today , you consist of about 50 trillion cells .


They operate by the laws of physics and chemistry, and use micro-machines to build proteins,

They operate by the laws of physics and chemistry , and use micro - machines to build proteins ,


make energy usable, devour food, transport resources, transmit information, or reproduce.

make energy usable , devour food , transport resources , transmit information , or reproduce .


They communicate, duplicate, commit suicide, fight off intruders,

They communicate , duplicate , commit suicide , fight off intruders ,


and fulfill super specialized duties for the greater good of keeping you alive, so you can have babies.

and fulfill super specialized duties for the greater good of keeping you alive , so you can have babies .


But where is the you part in this if you're made of trillions of little things?

But where is the you part in this if you 're made of trillions of little things ?


The basic information for you is stored in the DNA,

The basic information for you is stored in the DNA ,


If you were to unravel it, it would be 2 meters long.

If you were to unravel it , it would be 2 meters long .


If you combined all the little DNA strings in all your cells, you'd get a string so long that it would stretch to Pluto and back to Earth.

If you combined all the little DNA strings in all your cells , you 'd get a string so long that it would stretch to Pluto and back to Earth .


That's pretty long.


And your DNA is a direct connection to your very first ancestor.

And your DNA is a direct connection to your very first ancestor .


Take a second to think about this.


In every cell of your body, there's a little string of stuff that's been there in various forms for 3.4 billion years.

In every cell of your body , there 's a little string of stuff that 's been there in various forms for 3.4 billion years .


It evolved, it mutated, it duplicated trillions of times, but it directly connects you to the first living being on this planet.

It evolved , it mutated , it duplicated trillions of times , but it directly connects you to the first living being on this planet .


We could say you touch to every living being that came before you with your DNA.

We could say you touch to every living being that came before you with your DNA .


But you are more than your DNA.


Your body is made of 7 octillion atoms.

Your body is made of 7 octillion atoms .


That's 7 billion billion billions.


Roughly 93% of the mass of the human body is made up of just 3 elements.

Roughly 93 % of the mass of the human body is made up of just 3 elements .


Oxygen and hydrogen are predominantly found in water, which makes up about 60% of the body by weight.

Oxygen and hydrogen are predominantly found in water , which makes up about 60 % of the body by weight .


Carbon is maybe the most important element for life.

Carbon is maybe the most important element for life .


It can easily bond with other atoms, which allows for the building of long, complex chains of molecules, which make up the solid part of you.

It can easily bond with other atoms , which allows for the building of long , complex chains of molecules , which make up the solid part of you .


The remaining 7% is a tour of the periodic table of elements.

The remaining 7 % is a tour of the periodic table of elements .


By the way, this also means you're about 0.5% metal, no matter what your favorite music is.

By the way , this also means you 're about 0.5 % metal , no matter what your favorite music is .


Anyway, these elements perform various functions like enabling oxygen transport, building of bones and cell structures, carrying signals, driving chemical reactions and a lot more.

Anyway , these elements perform various functions like enabling oxygen transport , building of bones and cell structures , carrying signals , driving chemical reactions and a lot more .


Your body is in a constant state of transition.

Your body is in a constant state of transition .


Every 16 days, 75% of you has been replaced, because a healthy human exchanges about 100% of their water in that time period.

Every 16 days , 75 % of you has been replaced , because a healthy human exchanges about 100 % of their water in that time period .


Each year, about 98% of your atoms are replaced by new ones and every 5 years, close to all of the atoms that make up your body weren't there 5 years ago.

Each year , about 98 % of your atoms are replaced by new ones and every 5 years , close to all of the atoms that make up your body were n't there 5 years ago .


So, you could call yourself a temporary collection of atoms.

So , you could call yourself a temporary collection of atoms .


But, where did these atoms come from?


In the beginning of the universe, there were mostly hydrogen and helium atoms.

In the beginning of the universe , there were mostly hydrogen and helium atoms .


Enormous gas clouds formed over millennia and grew denser and denser until they collapsed under their own gravity, giving birth to the first stars.

Enormous gas clouds formed over millennia and grew denser and denser until they collapsed under their own gravity , giving birth to the first stars .


In the cores of these stars, hydrogen was converted into helium under extreme conditions.

In the cores of these stars , hydrogen was converted into helium under extreme conditions .


After millions of years, the hydrogen became exhausted and the stars began dying.

After millions of years , the hydrogen became exhausted and the stars began dying .


Under super extreme conditions, all elements we know today were created a fraction of a second before they died and exploded in supernovas.

Under super extreme conditions , all elements we know today were created a fraction of a second before they died and exploded in supernovas .


They shot most of their contents into space while the cores collapsed and became black holes.

They shot most of their contents into space while the cores collapsed and became black holes .


All these elements traveled through space for who knows how long,

All these elements traveled through space for who knows how long ,


until they arrived at a different cloud that was slowly forming a new star, our Sun.

until they arrived at a different cloud that was slowly forming a new star , our Sun .


These elements that once were the insides of a star formed planets and found their way onto Earth, where they enabled life to begin.

These elements that once were the insides of a star formed planets and found their way onto Earth , where they enabled life to begin .


So, we are directly connected to the first stars ever born in the universe.

So , we are directly connected to the first stars ever born in the universe .


We are part of the universe.


The idea of being a deeply connected minuscule part of an enormous structure is really mind-blowing.

The idea of being a deeply connected minuscule part of an enormous structure is really mind - blowing .


We don't know what all this means, or if it means anything at all.

We do n't know what all this means , or if it means anything at all .


We know that we are made of little parts that connect us to everything in the universe, to the beginning of everything.

We know that we are made of little parts that connect us to everything in the universe , to the beginning of everything .


And this is kind of a nice thought.


You are not alone.


You never were.


You never will be.


This progress and all the wonderful machines you take for granted are built on a few rare and precious materials with names like terbium, neodymium, or tantalum.

This progress and all the wonderful machines you take for granted are built on a few rare and precious materials with names like terbium , neodymium , or tantalum .


Getting these rare materials from the ground into your devices is ugly.

Getting these rare materials from the ground into your devices is ugly .


The mining industry is responsible for air and water pollution and the destruction of entire landscapes.

The mining industry is responsible for air and water pollution and the destruction of entire landscapes .


Dangerous chemicals like cyanide, sulfuric acid, or chlorine are used to extract the resources, harming biodiversity, workers, and locals.

Dangerous chemicals like cyanide , sulfuric acid , or chlorine are used to extract the resources , harming biodiversity , workers , and locals .


And rare resources are also political tools when countries restrict access to them to get their way.

And rare resources are also political tools when countries restrict access to them to get their way .


All we need to do is look up.


Asteroids are millions of trillions of tons of rocks, metals, and ice, leftovers from the cloud that became the planet 4.5 billion years ago.

Asteroids are millions of trillions of tons of rocks , metals , and ice , leftovers from the cloud that became the planet 4.5 billion years ago .


They can be as small as a meter, or protoplanets the size of entire countries.

They can be as small as a meter , or protoplanets the size of entire countries .


Most of them are concentrated in the asteroid belt and the Kuiper belt, while hundreds of thousands more do their own thing between the planets.

Most of them are concentrated in the asteroid belt and the Kuiper belt , while hundreds of thousands more do their own thing between the planets .


As space travel is becoming more feasible, scientists and economists have begun looking at the resources found in these asteroids.

As space travel is becoming more feasible , scientists and economists have begun looking at the resources found in these asteroids .


Even relatively small metallic asteroids may contain trillions worth of industrial and precious metals like platinum.

Even relatively small metallic asteroids may contain trillions worth of industrial and precious metals like platinum .


And bigger asteroids like 16 Psyche could contain enough iron-nickel to cover the world's metal needs for millions of years.

And bigger asteroids like 16 Psyche could contain enough iron - nickel to cover the world 's metal needs for millions of years .


At current market prices, the rare raw materials alone would be worth quadrillions of dollars.

At current market prices , the rare raw materials alone would be worth quadrillions of dollars .


For example, there are more than 20 million tons of gold in the ocean's water worth roughly 750 trillion US dollars,

For example , there are more than 20 million tons of gold in the ocean 's water worth roughly 750 trillion US dollars ,


but filtering out the gold would be so expensive that you'd lose money selling it.

but filtering out the gold would be so expensive that you 'd lose money selling it .


Right now, asteroid mining has exactly this problem.

Right now , asteroid mining has exactly this problem .


It's too expensive to replace mining on Earth.

It 's too expensive to replace mining on Earth .


Billions of dollars worth of valuable resources in space are worthless if it costs trillions to get them.

Billions of dollars worth of valuable resources in space are worthless if it costs trillions to get them .


What makes it so hard?


The principles behind mining an asteroid are simple.

The principles behind mining an asteroid are simple .


The basic idea is to choose an asteroid, move it to a place where it's easy to process, and then take it apart to turn into useful products.

The basic idea is to choose an asteroid , move it to a place where it 's easy to process , and then take it apart to turn into useful products .


Unfortunately, all of this collides with fundamental problems humans have yet to solve.

Unfortunately , all of this collides with fundamental problems humans have yet to solve .


Going to space is expensive.


It costs thousands of dollars in rocket fuel for each kilogram just to reach a low Earth orbit.

It costs thousands of dollars in rocket fuel for each kilogram just to reach a low Earth orbit .


Going further out into deep space costs thousands more.

Going further out into deep space costs thousands more .


We need cheaper space travel to make asteroid mining profitable.

We need cheaper space travel to make asteroid mining profitable .


One solution is to switch from classical rockets to electric spaceships.

One solution is to switch from classical rockets to electric spaceships .


We already use electrical rocket engines for many of the space probes on science missions.

We already use electrical rocket engines for many of the space probes on science missions .


In principle, we only need to build bigger ones.

In principle , we only need to build bigger ones .


While electrical engines are not powerful enough to fly to space, they require only a tiny amount of fuel to go very far once they're in space.

While electrical engines are not powerful enough to fly to space , they require only a tiny amount of fuel to go very far once they 're in space .


This means we don't need to spend a lot of money on fuel only to transport fuel into space.

This means we do n't need to spend a lot of money on fuel only to transport fuel into space .


This doesn't solve the whole cost problem, but it makes it easier to start our first mission.

This does n't solve the whole cost problem , but it makes it easier to start our first mission .


Now that we have an electric asteroid mining spaceship, we need to find the right asteroid and get it there.

Now that we have an electric asteroid mining spaceship , we need to find the right asteroid and get it there .


We've already successfully visited asteroids with space probes and even collected samples.

We 've already successfully visited asteroids with space probes and even collected samples .


Still, to make it easier and cheaper, our first targets will probably be near-Earth asteroids.

Still , to make it easier and cheaper , our first targets will probably be near - Earth asteroids .


After a few months of travel, our spaceship finally arrives at our asteroid.

After a few months of travel , our spaceship finally arrives at our asteroid .


Weirdly formed, littered with small impact craters, it hasn't changed much for billions of years.

Weirdly formed , littered with small impact craters , it has n't changed much for billions of years .


The first thing that needs to be done is to secure the asteroid and stop it from spinning.

The first thing that needs to be done is to secure the asteroid and stop it from spinning .


There are multiple ways to do this, like vaporizing material with a laser or stopping the rotation with thrusters.

There are multiple ways to do this , like vaporizing material with a laser or stopping the rotation with thrusters .


Once we have a stable asteroid, we need to wait.

Once we have a stable asteroid , we need to wait .


Orbital mechanics are complicated, but if you push something in the right direction at exactly the right moment, you can move very big things with very little force.

Orbital mechanics are complicated , but if you push something in the right direction at exactly the right moment , you can move very big things with very little force .


So we wait for exactly the right moment.

So we wait for exactly the right moment .


Our ship fires its thrusters and nudges the asteroid into a trajectory that takes it near our moon.

Our ship fires its thrusters and nudges the asteroid into a trajectory that takes it near our moon .


The moon is useful because we can borrow its gravitational pull to put the asteroid in a stable orbit around Earth, which saves even more fuel.

The moon is useful because we can borrow its gravitational pull to put the asteroid in a stable orbit around Earth , which saves even more fuel .


Again, the trip takes months.


But all the time since our ship was launched has not been wasted.

But all the time since our ship was launched has not been wasted .


The first space mining and processing equipment has been installed in orbit and is now carefully moving towards the asteroid.

The first space mining and processing equipment has been installed in orbit and is now carefully moving towards the asteroid .


The processor works very differently than on Earth.

The processor works very differently than on Earth .


Giant mirrors focus sunlight and heat up asteroid rock to boil out the gases.

Giant mirrors focus sunlight and heat up asteroid rock to boil out the gases .


Grinders break up the dried rocks into gravel and dust, and centrifuges separate dents from light elements.

Grinders break up the dried rocks into gravel and dust , and centrifuges separate dents from light elements .


Even if we only extract 0.01% of the asteroid's mass in precious metals, this is still several times more than you'd get from the same amount of ore on the ground.

Even if we only extract 0.01 % of the asteroid 's mass in precious metals , this is still several times more than you 'd get from the same amount of ore on the ground .


How do we get our precious metals safely back to ground?

How do we get our precious metals safely back to ground ?


There are a few ways, like loading it into reusable rockets that return to Earth from space.

There are a few ways , like loading it into reusable rockets that return to Earth from space .


Or if our processor contains 3D printers, we can print a faster and cheaper delivery system.

Or if our processor contains 3D printers , we can print a faster and cheaper delivery system .


Heat-shielded capsules filled with gas bubbles.

Heat - shielded capsules filled with gas bubbles .


These can just be dropped into the oceans, where ships tow them away.

These can just be dropped into the oceans , where ships tow them away .


This could be the starting point of humanity's first real steps towards colonizing the solar system.

This could be the starting point of humanity 's first real steps towards colonizing the solar system .


As our infrastructure and experience grows, our missions get more and more sophisticated.

As our infrastructure and experience grows , our missions get more and more sophisticated .


Parts and fuel produced on asteroids don't have to be launched from Earth at all.

Parts and fuel produced on asteroids do n't have to be launched from Earth at all .


The first mining operation makes the second one easier, and so on.

The first mining operation makes the second one easier , and so on .


While the space industry grows and precious materials become cheaper, eventually we could stop mining on Earth.

While the space industry grows and precious materials become cheaper , eventually we could stop mining on Earth .


Even the idea of toxic mining down here might become something weird and anachronistic, like having an open fire in your living room.

Even the idea of toxic mining down here might become something weird and anachronistic , like having an open fire in your living room .


Landscapes ravaged by pollution will heal, while the technological wonders we're used to get cheaper and less toxic to make.

Landscapes ravaged by pollution will heal , while the technological wonders we 're used to get cheaper and less toxic to make .


None of this is science fiction.


We don't need fancy materials or new physics to make asteroid mining happen.

We do n't need fancy materials or new physics to make asteroid mining happen .


We could start building this future today.

We could start building this future today .


All we need is an initial push.


Maybe you could also use a little nudge.

Maybe you could also use a little nudge .


Let us give you some tailwind there.


We partnered with Skillshare, an online learning community with thousands of classes in all kinds of creative skills like graphic design, music, photography, illustration, and animation.

We partnered with Skillshare , an online learning community with thousands of classes in all kinds of creative skills like graphic design , music , photography , illustration , and animation .


They have something for every skill level, so no matter from where you're starting, there'll be tons of things for you to explore.

They have something for every skill level , so no matter from where you 're starting , there 'll be tons of things for you to explore .


If you'd like to take a glimpse behind the scenes of our animations,

If you 'd like to take a glimpse behind the scenes of our animations ,


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Or if you'd rather come up with your own characters to breathe life into, we recommend Character Illustration, from concept to final artwork, by Matt Kaufenberg.

Or if you 'd rather come up with your own characters to breathe life into , we recommend Character Illustration , from concept to final artwork , by Matt Kaufenberg .


But it doesn't really matter what you pick as long as you get started, improve your skills, and have some fun.

But it does n't really matter what you pick as long as you get started , improve your skills , and have some fun .


Unlimited access to all classes is only $10 a month with an annual premium membership.

Unlimited access to all classes is only $ 10 a month with an annual premium membership .


But we have a treat for the first 1,000 Kurzgesagt viewers to click the link in the description.

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You'll get a two-month trial for free.

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If you want to leave your comfort zone by exploring new skills and support Kurzgesagt, give it a try.

If you want to leave your comfort zone by exploring new skills and support Kurzgesagt , give it a try .


Absolutely everything you think about yourself and the universe could be an illusion.

Absolutely everything you think about yourself and the universe could be an illusion .


As far as you know, you are real and exist in a universe that was born 14 billion years ago and that gave rise to galaxies, stars, the Earth, and finally you.

As far as you know , you are real and exist in a universe that was born 14 billion years ago and that gave rise to galaxies , stars , the Earth , and finally you .


You may actually not exist for real, but be the dream of a dead universe.

You may actually not exist for real , but be the dream of a dead universe .


Crazy as it sounds, this may be an unavoidable consequence of our best scientific theories about the universe.

Crazy as it sounds , this may be an unavoidable consequence of our best scientific theories about the universe .


Okay, this is a bit much.


Let's start at the beginning.


We need to understand three concepts for this idea to make sense.

We need to understand three concepts for this idea to make sense .


What distinguishes the past from the future?

What distinguishes the past from the future ?


Put a drop of red ink into a glass of water and you see the ink spread until it fills the container, but never the opposite.

Put a drop of red ink into a glass of water and you see the ink spread until it fills the container , but never the opposite .


Time always seems to flow in the direction in which the ink spreads.

Time always seems to flow in the direction in which the ink spreads .


But if you take a microscope, all you will see will be a swarm of molecules colliding at random.

But if you take a microscope , all you will see will be a swarm of molecules colliding at random .


There are no rules, no forwards and backwards.

There are no rules , no forwards and backwards .


Every individual motion that happens can occur in reverse.

Every individual motion that happens can occur in reverse .


But we perceive a sort of arrow of time that makes things happen in one direction.

But we perceive a sort of arrow of time that makes things happen in one direction .


How does this phenomenon occur?


Well, this arrow of time is not actually fundamental, but a matter of probability.

Well , this arrow of time is not actually fundamental , but a matter of probability .


When ink molecules spread to fill a glass, there are many different slots of space they can occupy, and therefore many different possibilities to combine them.

When ink molecules spread to fill a glass , there are many different slots of space they can occupy , and therefore many different possibilities to combine them .


the probability that ink molecules will end up filling the glass is much higher than the probability that they'll concentrate in just one spot.

the probability that ink molecules will end up filling the glass is much higher than the probability that they 'll concentrate in just one spot .


So it's not that the ink forming a drop again is forbidden by the laws of physics, it's just extremely unlikely.

So it 's not that the ink forming a drop again is forbidden by the laws of physics , it 's just extremely unlikely .


To see it, you'd have to wait about 10 to the power of 106 billion years, a 1 followed by 106 billion zeros.

To see it , you 'd have to wait about 10 to the power of 106 billion years , a 1 followed by 106 billion zeros .


If you had this much time to spare, eventually, by pure random chance, you'd see a red blob form again.

If you had this much time to spare , eventually , by pure random chance , you 'd see a red blob form again .


Actually, with enough time, you could see any shape forming, like, for example, a small, red, soggy brain.

Actually , with enough time , you could see any shape forming , like , for example , a small , red , soggy brain .


Okay, let's move on to idea 2.


Our universe was born 14 billion years ago in the Big Bang.

Our universe was born 14 billion years ago in the Big Bang .


It expanded and evolved to give rise to the myriads of galaxies and things.

It expanded and evolved to give rise to the myriads of galaxies and things .


In other words, the universe is kind of a glass of water with a lot of ink doing stuff.

In other words , the universe is kind of a glass of water with a lot of ink doing stuff .


It has an arrow of time.


But the universe is not a static glass, it seems to be getting bigger at an ever-increasing speed because of dark energy.

But the universe is not a static glass , it seems to be getting bigger at an ever - increasing speed because of dark energy .


Basically, everything in it is getting more and more diluted.

Basically , everything in it is getting more and more diluted .


In about 100 trillion years, the last star will die.

In about 100 trillion years , the last star will die .


Then, few interesting things will happen for the next few decillions, vantillions, and googles of years.

Then , few interesting things will happen for the next few decillions , vantillions , and googles of years .


Eventually, the universe will be a dark place fully dominated by dark energy, a rapidly expanding ball of pure space almost devoid of matter.

Eventually , the universe will be a dark place fully dominated by dark energy , a rapidly expanding ball of pure space almost devoid of matter .


You might think that this would lead to the ultimate death of everything, but dark energy has one last surprise for you.

You might think that this would lead to the ultimate death of everything , but dark energy has one last surprise for you .


In a universe dominated by dark energy, space expands so dramatically that it creates a cosmic horizon around you,

In a universe dominated by dark energy , space expands so dramatically that it creates a cosmic horizon around you ,


So for every practical purpose, the universe has become a glass of finite size about 36 billion light-years wide surrounded by an impassable cosmic horizon.

So for every practical purpose , the universe has become a glass of finite size about 36 billion light - years wide surrounded by an impassable cosmic horizon .


Such a universe glass is basically a giant black hole turned inside out.

Such a universe glass is basically a giant black hole turned inside out .


We know that due to quantum effects, all black holes emit a tiny amount of particles, a phenomenon known as Hawking radiation.

We know that due to quantum effects , all black holes emit a tiny amount of particles , a phenomenon known as Hawking radiation .


And so does our inside-out black hole.

And so does our inside - out black hole .


In the end, this radiation will fill the universe glass with particles again.

In the end , this radiation will fill the universe glass with particles again .


At this point, so far in the future that giving you a number has no more meaning, we've reached the true final state.

At this point , so far in the future that giving you a number has no more meaning , we 've reached the true final state .


The universe has now become a closed box full of particles at an extremely low but finite temperature.

The universe has now become a closed box full of particles at an extremely low but finite temperature .


And since they have a temperature, they undergo random motions.

And since they have a temperature , they undergo random motions .


Things are about to become interesting again.

Things are about to become interesting again .


Eternity is a long, long time.


So now, even the most extremely unlikely things can happen.

So now , even the most extremely unlikely things can happen .


The fluctuating particles are bumping into each other over and over and over again, creating every combination of particles that's possible.

The fluctuating particles are bumping into each other over and over and over again , creating every combination of particles that 's possible .


They're like a monkey typing at random on a typewriter.

They 're like a monkey typing at random on a typewriter .


Almost all of the time it types gibberish.

Almost all of the time it types gibberish .


But with enough time, eventually it will write the first acts of Hamlet.

But with enough time , eventually it will write the first acts of Hamlet .


If ink in our universe glass generates any random arrangements of particles, what could they be?

If ink in our universe glass generates any random arrangements of particles , what could they be ?


Well, a spontaneous fluctuation could give rise to a planet, or to a galaxy, or even to a lot of them.

Well , a spontaneous fluctuation could give rise to a planet , or to a galaxy , or even to a lot of them .


So maybe our universe has already ended, and all we see around us is a pop-up universe.

So maybe our universe has already ended , and all we see around us is a pop - up universe .


And that, like the drop of ink, will only exist for a while before dissolving again.

And that , like the drop of ink , will only exist for a while before dissolving again .


Being random, pop-up universes could be similar to ours, but with funny glitches.

Being random , pop - up universes could be similar to ours , but with funny glitches .


In some of these universes, dinosaurs are riding snails.

In some of these universes , dinosaurs are riding snails .


In another, stars are made of blueberries.

In another , stars are made of blueberries .


In another, you're wearing a funny hat.

In another , you 're wearing a funny hat .


Scientists in such universes wouldn't understand those glitches, so maybe the greatest mysteries of physics are just nonsense bugs of our pop-up universe.

Scientists in such universes would n't understand those glitches , so maybe the greatest mysteries of physics are just nonsense bugs of our pop - up universe .


But not all possible fluctuations of our dead universe have the same probability of occurring.

But not all possible fluctuations of our dead universe have the same probability of occurring .


Smaller fluctuations are much more probable than bigger ones.

Smaller fluctuations are much more probable than bigger ones .


A planet is more likely than a galaxy.


But you know what's even way more likely?

But you know what 's even way more likely ?


Are you actually just a brain?


You think, therefore, you exist.


But what else do you truly know?


In the end, your brain is just interpreting signals from your senses and creating a world that you experience.

In the end , your brain is just interpreting signals from your senses and creating a world that you experience .


So technically, you could be just your brain that thinks the world is real.

So technically , you could be just your brain that thinks the world is real .


And if we follow the logic of the ink in the universe class, in particular, you could be a disembodied brain that,

And if we follow the logic of the ink in the universe class , in particular , you could be a disembodied brain that ,


This is a pretty bizarre idea, but if we do the maths, it's kind of pretty solid.

This is a pretty bizarre idea , but if we do the maths , it 's kind of pretty solid .


Let's compare the number of brains inside bodies in a living universe with the number of naked brains in a dead universe.

Let 's compare the number of brains inside bodies in a living universe with the number of naked brains in a dead universe .


Let's go really big and imagine that a total of 100 quadrillion humans will live around Earth and that the same amount of people will live around every star in the universe.

Let 's go really big and imagine that a total of 100 quadrillion humans will live around Earth and that the same amount of people will live around every star in the universe .


If we add this together, we get about 10 to the power of 41 brains inside bodies that will exist.

If we add this together , we get about 10 to the power of 41 brains inside bodies that will exist .


However, in a dead universe that has had enough time to explore all possible fluctuations and that will exist forever,

However , in a dead universe that has had enough time to explore all possible fluctuations and that will exist forever ,


the number of naked brains that would emerge is, well, infinite.

the number of naked brains that would emerge is , well , infinite .


So the probability that you're a floating brain is not only vastly larger than the probability that you're a real human,

So the probability that you 're a floating brain is not only vastly larger than the probability that you 're a real human ,


it's so inconceivably larger that we can't even meaningfully quantify the difference.

it 's so inconceivably larger that we ca n't even meaningfully quantify the difference .


How do you compare a number to infinity?

How do you compare a number to infinity ?


So, are you a floating brain that exists for one moment in time, then basically forever passes, and then you exist for another moment in time?

So , are you a floating brain that exists for one moment in time , then basically forever passes , and then you exist for another moment in time ?


Maybe your life happens backwards and you just don't notice.

Maybe your life happens backwards and you just do n't notice .


Maybe you've lived trillions of times already.

Maybe you 've lived trillions of times already .


Are you the dream of a dead universe?


First of all, there are a few loopholes.

First of all , there are a few loopholes .


For example, dark energy could behave completely differently from what we think today and lead us to another future.

For example , dark energy could behave completely differently from what we think today and lead us to another future .


Or maybe our dead universe will be too motionless to allow the creation of brains, even with infinite time.

Or maybe our dead universe will be too motionless to allow the creation of brains , even with infinite time .


Or maybe the universe will end up dying in another way.

Or maybe the universe will end up dying in another way .


Our understanding of the cosmos doesn't have a solid enough foundation for anyone to worry if they're real or not.

Our understanding of the cosmos does n't have a solid enough foundation for anyone to worry if they 're real or not .


Loopholes aside, if you were a fluctuating brain, all the laws of physics stored in your brain would have originated at random and shouldn't bear any relation to the real world.

Loopholes aside , if you were a fluctuating brain , all the laws of physics stored in your brain would have originated at random and should n't bear any relation to the real world .


But we just used those laws to prove that you're a floating brain.

But we just used those laws to prove that you 're a floating brain .


So even if you believe that you are a floating brain, you'd have to admit that you have no good reason to believe that you are actually a floating brain.

So even if you believe that you are a floating brain , you 'd have to admit that you have no good reason to believe that you are actually a floating brain .


Hmm, okay, so this hallucinatory trip might teach us something about our theories about the universe.

Hmm , okay , so this hallucinatory trip might teach us something about our theories about the universe .


But in the end, it's just a really weird exercise in what you can do with physics.

But in the end , it 's just a really weird exercise in what you can do with physics .


So don't worry.


You're not a dream of the dead universe.

You 're not a dream of the dead universe .


At Kurzgesagt, we love discussing topics like Bortzmann brains

At Kurzgesagt , we love discussing topics like Bortzmann brains


because we're convinced that taking science and philosophy seriously is really important for having a positive impact on the world.

because we 're convinced that taking science and philosophy seriously is really important for having a positive impact on the world .


We're lucky because this is our job.


Doing something impactful, we also enjoy.

Doing something impactful , we also enjoy .


If you're also aiming to make a positive difference, where should you start?

If you 're also aiming to make a positive difference , where should you start ?


Well, we've noticed a lot of advice about having a positive impact isn't based on the best available evidence.

Well , we 've noticed a lot of advice about having a positive impact is n't based on the best available evidence .


Today's sponsor, 80,000 Hours, aims to offer some that is.

Today 's sponsor , 80,000 Hours , aims to offer some that is .


80,000 Hours is a non-profit career advice organization that wants to help people find fulfilling careers that also do a lot of good in the world.

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And their advice is free to read online without any hidden cost or fee later on.

And their advice is free to read online without any hidden cost or fee later on .


They've spent the last decade compiling and conducting research into topics like how much impact can one person actually have?

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And what are the best ways to make a positive difference on important global issues?

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And like us, they care a lot about making sure their work is based on the best available evidence and consultation with experts.

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If you'd like to read it for yourself and start working towards a career that's both meaningful and helps solve one of the world's most pressing problems,

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Our home is burning.


Rapid climate change is destabilizing our world.

Rapid climate change is destabilizing our world .


It seems our emissions will not fall quickly enough to avoid runaway warming,

It seems our emissions will not fall quickly enough to avoid runaway warming ,


and we may soon hit tipping points that will lead to the collapse of ecosystems and our civilization.

and we may soon hit tipping points that will lead to the collapse of ecosystems and our civilization .


While scientists, activists, and much of the younger generation urge action, it appears most politicians are not committed to doing anything meaningful,

While scientists , activists , and much of the younger generation urge action , it appears most politicians are not committed to doing anything meaningful ,


while the fossil fuel industry still works actively against change.

while the fossil fuel industry still works actively against change .


It seems humanity can't overcome its greed and obsession with short-term profit and personal gain to save itself.

It seems humanity ca n't overcome its greed and obsession with short - term profit and personal gain to save itself .


And so for many, the future looks grim and hopeless.

And so for many , the future looks grim and hopeless .


Young people feel particularly anxious and depressed.

Young people feel particularly anxious and depressed .


Instead of looking ahead to a lifetime of opportunity, they wonder if they will even have a future, or if they should bring kids into this world.

Instead of looking ahead to a lifetime of opportunity , they wonder if they will even have a future , or if they should bring kids into this world .


It's an age of doom and hopelessness, and giving up seems the only sensible thing to do.

It 's an age of doom and hopelessness , and giving up seems the only sensible thing to do .


But that's not true.


You are not doomed.


Humanity is not doomed.


Despite the seriousness of the situation, for years, positive trends have accumulated, and there is finally some good news and a clear path towards our collective climate goals.

Despite the seriousness of the situation , for years , positive trends have accumulated , and there is finally some good news and a clear path towards our collective climate goals .


Welcome to our TED Talk.


Please watch this video to the end, check out our detailed sources afterwards to learn more.

Please watch this video to the end , check out our detailed sources afterwards to learn more .


Okay, let's start with the scariest things.

Okay , let 's start with the scariest things .


Some of the most widely shared stories about climate change are that it is an existential threat,

Some of the most widely shared stories about climate change are that it is an existential threat ,


But what does science actually say?


As of 2022, the global average temperature has risen 1.2 degrees Celsius compared to pre-industrial times.

As of 2022 , the global average temperature has risen 1.2 degrees Celsius compared to pre - industrial times .


Limiting warming to 1.5 degrees was the most ambitious goal of the Paris Agreement, but we are not likely to meet it.

Limiting warming to 1.5 degrees was the most ambitious goal of the Paris Agreement , but we are not likely to meet it .


Already with the warming we have today, hot places will get hotter, wet places wetter, and the risk and strength of extreme weather events increase significantly.

Already with the warming we have today , hot places will get hotter , wet places wetter , and the risk and strength of extreme weather events increase significantly .


Warming beyond 2 degrees makes all of these extremes more extreme.

Warming beyond 2 degrees makes all of these extremes more extreme .


Some will not survive.


At 3 degrees, significant parts of Earth, especially in developing countries, might become unable to feed their populations.

At 3 degrees , significant parts of Earth , especially in developing countries , might become unable to feed their populations .


Heat waves will become a major global issue.

Heat waves will become a major global issue .


Large-scale natural systems will break down.

Large - scale natural systems will break down .


The scale and frequency of hurricanes, fires, and droughts will further increase and cause trillions in damage.

The scale and frequency of hurricanes , fires , and droughts will further increase and cause trillions in damage .


Poor regions and subsistence farmers will be hit the hardest.

Poor regions and subsistence farmers will be hit the hardest .


Hundreds of millions of people will need to leave their homes.

Hundreds of millions of people will need to leave their homes .


In the 4-8 degree range, the apocalypse begins.

In the 4 - 8 degree range , the apocalypse begins .


A decade ago, for lack of action and perspective, many scientists assumed a 4-plus degree world was our future,

A decade ago , for lack of action and perspective , many scientists assumed a 4 - plus degree world was our future ,


and a lot of public communication focused on exactly this future path.

and a lot of public communication focused on exactly this future path .


Luckily, it's much less likely that this version of the apocalypse will come to pass.

Luckily , it 's much less likely that this version of the apocalypse will come to pass .


If current climate policies stagnate, we're likely to end up with warming of around 3 degrees Celsius by 2100.

If current climate policies stagnate , we 're likely to end up with warming of around 3 degrees Celsius by 2100 .


But this is actually good news.


In the last decade, we've seen enough progress that most scientists now think that we have likely avoided apocalyptic climate change.

In the last decade , we 've seen enough progress that most scientists now think that we have likely avoided apocalyptic climate change .


Although substantial risk still remains, we can pretty confidently say that humanity isn't going anywhere.

Although substantial risk still remains , we can pretty confidently say that humanity is n't going anywhere .


Civilization might have to change, but it will endure.

Civilization might have to change , but it will endure .


Which begs the question, what has changed over the last 10 years, and is this really good news?

Which begs the question , what has changed over the last 10 years , and is this really good news ?


You probably know this story.


The last decade has been an immense failure for climate policies around the world.

The last decade has been an immense failure for climate policies around the world .


Instead of passing comprehensive, binding bills that would meaningfully reduce emissions, we mostly did nothing.

Instead of passing comprehensive , binding bills that would meaningfully reduce emissions , we mostly did nothing .


And this story is true, and it's one reason why so many people are giving up.

And this story is true , and it 's one reason why so many people are giving up .


But it is not the whole picture.


Despite the lack of climate policies and ongoing lobbying and misinformation campaigns from the fossil fuel industries, there was a lot of progress.

Despite the lack of climate policies and ongoing lobbying and misinformation campaigns from the fossil fuel industries , there was a lot of progress .


Let's go back 20 years to see why today is so different.

Let 's go back 20 years to see why today is so different .


Between 2000 and 2010, greenhouse gas emissions had grown by 24%, three times as much as the increase in the previous decade.

Between 2000 and 2010 , greenhouse gas emissions had grown by 24 % , three times as much as the increase in the previous decade .


Subsidies for fossil fuels aimed at promoting economic growth caused a colossal increase in their consumption.

Subsidies for fossil fuels aimed at promoting economic growth caused a colossal increase in their consumption .


For developing countries like China and India, coal was the cheapest fuel for growth, while rich countries showed little interest in changing their ways.

For developing countries like China and India , coal was the cheapest fuel for growth , while rich countries showed little interest in changing their ways .


In 2010, many people expected these trends to continue.

In 2010 , many people expected these trends to continue .


Instead of decreasing fossil fuel use, its consumption would rise.

Instead of decreasing fossil fuel use , its consumption would rise .


The next decade turned out to be very different, though.

The next decade turned out to be very different , though .


First of all, coal burning in developing countries like India has slowed down or leveled off, like in China.

First of all , coal burning in developing countries like India has slowed down or leveled off , like in China .


And it's plummeted in rich countries like the UK and US.

And it 's plummeted in rich countries like the UK and US .


Since 2015, three quarters of planned coal plants have been cancelled, and 44 countries have committed to stop building them.

Since 2015 , three quarters of planned coal plants have been cancelled , and 44 countries have committed to stop building them .


10 years ago, that would have seemed like wishful thinking.

10 years ago , that would have seemed like wishful thinking .


But today we can say with confidence, coal is dying.

But today we can say with confidence , coal is dying .


It's just not competitive anymore.


Because technologies we thought would remain expensive, matured rapidly instead.

Because technologies we thought would remain expensive , matured rapidly instead .


Renewable electricity has shown explosive progress.

Renewable electricity has shown explosive progress .


In a mere decade, wind energy got three times cheaper.

In a mere decade , wind energy got three times cheaper .


Solar electricity is now 10 times cheaper.

Solar electricity is now 10 times cheaper .


25 times more solar and nearly 5 times more wind electricity is produced today compared with 10 years ago, which is of course not nearly enough.

25 times more solar and nearly 5 times more wind electricity is produced today compared with 10 years ago , which is of course not nearly enough .


One of the biggest obstacles is the variability of their power output.

One of the biggest obstacles is the variability of their power output .


Renewables need a lot of energy storage to be a reliable power source, like expensive batteries.

Renewables need a lot of energy storage to be a reliable power source , like expensive batteries .


Amazingly, battery prices have decreased by 97% in the past 30 years, 60% in the last decade alone, which will serve all kinds of green technology like electric cars.

Amazingly , battery prices have decreased by 97 % in the past 30 years , 60 % in the last decade alone , which will serve all kinds of green technology like electric cars .


You might say, well, that's great.


But didn't Kurzgesagt's last climate video say that while wind and solar are nice, we need nothing less than a fundamental transition of our global industrial system?

But did n't Kurzgesagt 's last climate video say that while wind and solar are nice , we need nothing less than a fundamental transition of our global industrial system ?


Yes, but luckily, the shift goes beyond just the energy sector.

Yes , but luckily , the shift goes beyond just the energy sector .


Throughout the economy, people are working on improving current technology to lower emissions.

Throughout the economy , people are working on improving current technology to lower emissions .


We're rapidly replacing old incandescent light bulbs with LEDs that are 10 times more efficient.

We 're rapidly replacing old incandescent light bulbs with LEDs that are 10 times more efficient .


In 2020, about 7 out of 10 new cars in Norway were electric or hybrid.

In 2020 , about 7 out of 10 new cars in Norway were electric or hybrid .


In 2021, it was already 8 out of 10.


And the list goes on from electric heating and better insulation to ships traveling at half speed to save fuel.

And the list goes on from electric heating and better insulation to ships traveling at half speed to save fuel .


Wherever you look, you find scientists, engineers and entrepreneurs trying to solve some aspect of climate change.

Wherever you look , you find scientists , engineers and entrepreneurs trying to solve some aspect of climate change .


Enormous amounts of human ingenuity are being brought to bear on this problem, with more and more people deciding to prioritize preventing rapid climate change.

Enormous amounts of human ingenuity are being brought to bear on this problem , with more and more people deciding to prioritize preventing rapid climate change .


Solutions for low carbon production of cement, electronics and steel, and innovations like artificial meat and carbon capture are in the works.

Solutions for low carbon production of cement , electronics and steel , and innovations like artificial meat and carbon capture are in the works .


The more of these technologies we deploy, the cheaper new and better technology gets.

The more of these technologies we deploy , the cheaper new and better technology gets .


The cheaper they get, the more people use them, and so on.

The cheaper they get , the more people use them , and so on .


We can see the impact already.


The domestic CO2 output of rich countries is falling without a major recession.

The domestic CO2 output of rich countries is falling without a major recession .


But the best news may be that emissions are no longer necessarily coupled with economic growth.

But the best news may be that emissions are no longer necessarily coupled with economic growth .


In the past, this was an inconvenient truth.

In the past , this was an inconvenient truth .


To get richer, you had to emit more, which led to fierce arguments between developing and developed countries about the fairness of reducing emissions while their populations were still poor.

To get richer , you had to emit more , which led to fierce arguments between developing and developed countries about the fairness of reducing emissions while their populations were still poor .


But in the last decade, we've seen that it is possible to increase prosperity without increasing emissions.

But in the last decade , we 've seen that it is possible to increase prosperity without increasing emissions .


Emissions in the Czech Republic dropped 13%, while their GDP grew by 27%.

Emissions in the Czech Republic dropped 13 % , while their GDP grew by 27 % .


France reduced their CO2 emissions by 14%, while increasing GDP by 15%.

France reduced their CO2 emissions by 14 % , while increasing GDP by 15 % .


Romania saw an 8% decrease and 35% growth.

Romania saw an 8 % decrease and 35 % growth .


And even the largest economy on Earth, the USA, decreased emissions by 4%, while growing their GDP by 26%.

And even the largest economy on Earth , the USA , decreased emissions by 4 % , while growing their GDP by 26 % .


Some of you may call this a numbers trick, that rich countries are just exporting emissions to poorer nations by moving the dirty parts of their economies like manufacturing.

Some of you may call this a numbers trick , that rich countries are just exporting emissions to poorer nations by moving the dirty parts of their economies like manufacturing .


But even when we account for all of our imported goods, the numbers still look positive.

But even when we account for all of our imported goods , the numbers still look positive .


It's no longer a matter of having to choose between prosperity and the climate, as it seemed to be a decade ago.

It 's no longer a matter of having to choose between prosperity and the climate , as it seemed to be a decade ago .


Developing countries will profit from that, because as rich countries pay for the expensive development of green technologies, they can adopt them more cheaply.

Developing countries will profit from that , because as rich countries pay for the expensive development of green technologies , they can adopt them more cheaply .


They can skip most of the high emission phase that today's rich countries went through.

They can skip most of the high emission phase that today 's rich countries went through .


We are at the point where not decarbonizing is a bad business decision.

We are at the point where not decarbonizing is a bad business decision .


And we haven't even really talked about solutions like carbon capture.

And we have n't even really talked about solutions like carbon capture .


In 2000, it didn't really exist.


In 2022, that technology does exist and costs around $600 to remove one ton of CO2 from the atmosphere.

In 2022 , that technology does exist and costs around $ 600 to remove one ton of CO2 from the atmosphere .


As investment pours in and the technology matures and begins to scale, it's likely that these costs will plummet over the next few decades.

As investment pours in and the technology matures and begins to scale , it 's likely that these costs will plummet over the next few decades .


So everything's fine then.


Well, let's not get carried away.


All of these processes are great, but not nearly fast enough.

All of these processes are great , but not nearly fast enough .


We're still doing way too little and technology will not magically solve everything.

We 're still doing way too little and technology will not magically solve everything .


We need to use fewer resources and use them longer, design consumer goods that are repairable and durable, and decrease our energy requirements.

We need to use fewer resources and use them longer , design consumer goods that are repairable and durable , and decrease our energy requirements .


We need much better infrastructure, agriculture and cities.

We need much better infrastructure , agriculture and cities .


It will still be hard work, especially to get the right policies passed and enacted.

It will still be hard work , especially to get the right policies passed and enacted .


But for the first time ever, there are a few trend lines pointing solidly in the right direction.

But for the first time ever , there are a few trend lines pointing solidly in the right direction .


And now imagine if all of this was achieved without proper financial and political support.

And now imagine if all of this was achieved without proper financial and political support .


And despite fossil fuel lobbying, just think what humanity can do when climate change finally gets the political attention and funding it needs.

And despite fossil fuel lobbying , just think what humanity can do when climate change finally gets the political attention and funding it needs .


So is it okay to feel hopeful again?


The situation is still dire and serious.

The situation is still dire and serious .


So what's the point of focusing on this side of the story?

So what 's the point of focusing on this side of the story ?


Climate change can feel overwhelming and make your future seem bleak.

Climate change can feel overwhelming and make your future seem bleak .


The sadness and hopelessness that many people feel is real and very destructive because it causes apathy.

The sadness and hopelessness that many people feel is real and very destructive because it causes apathy .


In a sense, they have weaponized hopelessness.

In a sense , they have weaponized hopelessness .


We are now in phase four in the public debate about rapid climate change action.

We are now in phase four in the public debate about rapid climate change action .


Phase one was climate change is not real.

Phase one was climate change is not real .


Phase two was climate change is real, but not caused by humans.

Phase two was climate change is real , but not caused by humans .


Phase three was climate change may be caused by humans, but it's not that bad.

Phase three was climate change may be caused by humans , but it 's not that bad .


Phase four is climate change is no longer avoidable.

Phase four is climate change is no longer avoidable .


We are doomed and it doesn't matter what we do.

We are doomed and it does n't matter what we do .


If we want the world to change, we first need to believe that change is possible.

If we want the world to change , we first need to believe that change is possible .


And we have an abundance of evidence that it is.

And we have an abundance of evidence that it is .


Changes to our industrial system are gaining momentum.

Changes to our industrial system are gaining momentum .


Technology gets better and cheaper.


Climate change has become a key issue in most free elections.

Climate change has become a key issue in most free elections .


As more and more younger people move into influential positions, they prioritize climate change and work on new solutions.

As more and more younger people move into influential positions , they prioritize climate change and work on new solutions .


In 2022, most governments not only acknowledge it, but set their own net zero goals in democratic and autocratic countries.

In 2022 , most governments not only acknowledge it , but set their own net zero goals in democratic and autocratic countries .


The results of years of fighting a steep uphill battle are now clearly visible.

The results of years of fighting a steep uphill battle are now clearly visible .


The pressure needs to keep increasing to make sure that the promises made today are actually kept.

The pressure needs to keep increasing to make sure that the promises made today are actually kept .


Climate doomerism is the equivalent of giving up, even though you can still prevent not just the worst case,

Climate doomerism is the equivalent of giving up , even though you can still prevent not just the worst case ,


That is why hopelessness and apathy are so dangerous.

That is why hopelessness and apathy are so dangerous .


If the last in many ways wasted decade has shown anything, then it's the progress is being made and the dire scenarios are just predictions, not our sealed fate.

If the last in many ways wasted decade has shown anything , then it 's the progress is being made and the dire scenarios are just predictions , not our sealed fate .


As of 2022, based on current global policies, we will end up in a three degrees world.

As of 2022 , based on current global policies , we will end up in a three degrees world .


Now it's our job to yet again prove the predictions wrong,

Now it 's our job to yet again prove the predictions wrong ,


For that, we need hope.


And we hope we gave you that today, at least a little.

And we hope we gave you that today , at least a little .


If you need a more concrete roadmap of what you can do personally, we're working on a follow-up video to talk about that in greater detail.

If you need a more concrete roadmap of what you can do personally , we 're working on a follow - up video to talk about that in greater detail .


Doomerism, inactivity and weaponized hopelessness are the only trump cards left for the powers that don't want change.

Doomerism , inactivity and weaponized hopelessness are the only trump cards left for the powers that do n't want change .


Don't let them win.


We're still excited about the future and we think one of the best things you can do to keep your optimism and curiosity up is to learn new things.

We 're still excited about the future and we think one of the best things you can do to keep your optimism and curiosity up is to learn new things .


If you don't know where to start, our friends from brilliant.org have got you covered.

If you do n't know where to start , our friends from brilliant.org have got you covered .


Brilliant makes maths and science accessible and fun with a hands-on approach.

Brilliant makes maths and science accessible and fun with a hands - on approach .


More than 60 interactive courses like the joy of problem solving or scientific thinking give you the tools to crack problems in maths,

More than 60 interactive courses like the joy of problem solving or scientific thinking give you the tools to crack problems in maths ,


Lessons will surprise you with storytelling, code writing tasks and interactive challenges, basically using whatever keeps you interested and entertained.

Lessons will surprise you with storytelling , code writing tasks and interactive challenges , basically using whatever keeps you interested and entertained .


All the content is interactive, instead of just reading and listening to explanations, you drag and drop, manipulate shapes and diagrams, make selections and answer questions.

All the content is interactive , instead of just reading and listening to explanations , you drag and drop , manipulate shapes and diagrams , make selections and answer questions .


This way you learn something almost without you noticing it.

This way you learn something almost without you noticing it .


And tiny step by step, you'll build up your long-term understanding of science and get closer to your STEM goals.

And tiny step by step , you 'll build up your long - term understanding of science and get closer to your STEM goals .


To start looking at the world of science from a different perspective, go to brilliant.org slash nutshell and sign up for free.

To start looking at the world of science from a different perspective , go to brilliant.org slash nutshell and sign up for free .


And there's an extra perk for Kurzgesagt viewers.

And there 's an extra perk for Kurzgesagt viewers .


The first 200 people to use the link get 20% off their annual membership, which unlocks all of Brilliant's courses in maths, science and computer science.

The first 200 people to use the link get 20 % off their annual membership , which unlocks all of Brilliant 's courses in maths , science and computer science .


At Kurzgesagt, we love to create things that seem impossible at first.

At Kurzgesagt , we love to create things that seem impossible at first .


Brilliant can help you acquire the skills to do that.

Brilliant can help you acquire the skills to do that .


There's this idea floating around that what doesn't kill you makes you stronger, that surviving a disease leaves you better off.

There 's this idea floating around that what does n't kill you makes you stronger , that surviving a disease leaves you better off .


And it seems to make sense because we've all experienced this.

And it seems to make sense because we 've all experienced this .


When you go through hardship, often you come out more resilient, more ready to face a difficult situation in the future.

When you go through hardship , often you come out more resilient , more ready to face a difficult situation in the future .


But it turns out that sometimes what doesn't kill you makes you weaker.

But it turns out that sometimes what does n't kill you makes you weaker .


So, what happens when you get sick?


Think of yourself as a large country with a sizable army to defend it.

Think of yourself as a large country with a sizable army to defend it .


You're surrounded by enemies that want to take your land, your energy, your resources.

You 're surrounded by enemies that want to take your land , your energy , your resources .


This is a matter of life and death, so your body evolved to be sensitive to damage and to the presence of enemies.

This is a matter of life and death , so your body evolved to be sensitive to damage and to the presence of enemies .


Because this means that an invasion might happen at any moment and that it has to act fast.

Because this means that an invasion might happen at any moment and that it has to act fast .


Let's start an invasion and see what happens.

Let 's start an invasion and see what happens .


The moment your cells notice that something is off, they release an onslaught of signal proteins called cytokines.

The moment your cells notice that something is off , they release an onslaught of signal proteins called cytokines .


They're like air raid sirens that activate all sorts of immune cells that then themselves release many more cytokines, amplifying the alarm.

They 're like air raid sirens that activate all sorts of immune cells that then themselves release many more cytokines , amplifying the alarm .


Soon, you're flooded with signals that trigger precautions and countermeasures.

Soon , you 're flooded with signals that trigger precautions and countermeasures .


Mobilization is underway.


Your brain activates sickness behavior and reorganizes your body's priorities to defense.

Your brain activates sickness behavior and reorganizes your body 's priorities to defense .


The first thing you notice is that your energy level drops and you get sleepy.

The first thing you notice is that your energy level drops and you get sleepy .


You feel apathetic, often anxious or down, and you lose your appetite.

You feel apathetic , often anxious or down , and you lose your appetite .


Your sensitivity to pain is heightened and you seek out rest.

Your sensitivity to pain is heightened and you seek out rest .


All of this serves to save your energy and reroute it into your immune response.

All of this serves to save your energy and reroute it into your immune response .


You become a country under attack, switching into a war economy.

You become a country under attack , switching into a war economy .


Because properly activating your immune system is intensely disruptive and draining.

Because properly activating your immune system is intensely disruptive and draining .


Just like war is expensive for a country as industry switches to building tanks,

Just like war is expensive for a country as industry switches to building tanks ,


your immune system demands huge amounts of energy, amino acids and microelements to build its weapons.

your immune system demands huge amounts of energy , amino acids and microelements to build its weapons .


Take fever.


It speeds up your metabolism and makes your cells work harder and faster while creating heat that's pretty stressful for many invaders.

It speeds up your metabolism and makes your cells work harder and faster while creating heat that 's pretty stressful for many invaders .


But it uses up a lot of calories to maintain.

But it uses up a lot of calories to maintain .


Then your immune system begins to clone millions of specialized immune cells to respond specifically to the enemy infecting you.

Then your immune system begins to clone millions of specialized immune cells to respond specifically to the enemy infecting you .


B cells produce millions of antibodies every second, each requiring hundreds of amino acids to construct.

B cells produce millions of antibodies every second , each requiring hundreds of amino acids to construct .


Billions or even trillions of proteins need to be made to refresh the complement system, a minefield inside your blood.

Billions or even trillions of proteins need to be made to refresh the complement system , a minefield inside your blood .


Cytokines, the mobilization and information signals, also need constant refreshing.

Cytokines , the mobilization and information signals , also need constant refreshing .


Usually, you acquire your resources by eating.

Usually , you acquire your resources by eating .


But when you're sick, your body slows down your digestion because it needs a lot of energy you can't spare.

But when you 're sick , your body slows down your digestion because it needs a lot of energy you ca n't spare .


So it reaches for the easiest source of amino acids and starts breaking down your muscles.

So it reaches for the easiest source of amino acids and starts breaking down your muscles .


All that muscle that you work so hard for is sacrificed to keep you alive.

All that muscle that you work so hard for is sacrificed to keep you alive .


If you're young and healthy and fit, you'll make up for that quickly once you're better.

If you 're young and healthy and fit , you 'll make up for that quickly once you 're better .


But if you're old or very young, weak or suffer from chronic illness, this may be way too draining.

But if you 're old or very young , weak or suffer from chronic illness , this may be way too draining .


Your body is literally consuming itself to keep the defense going.

Your body is literally consuming itself to keep the defense going .


If your whole system is already strained, when you get sick, just keeping your immune responses going can overwhelm your capacities.

If your whole system is already strained , when you get sick , just keeping your immune responses going can overwhelm your capacities .


Your immune system is a jerk.


Your immune system is as dangerous to you as it is to enemies.

Your immune system is as dangerous to you as it is to enemies .


There's a very fragile balance between the damage caused by an infection and the collateral damage caused by immune cells.

There 's a very fragile balance between the damage caused by an infection and the collateral damage caused by immune cells .


One of your first responders are neutrophils.

One of your first responders are neutrophils .


Imagine crazy aggressive chimps with machine guns.

Imagine crazy aggressive chimps with machine guns .


If a neutrophil encounters enemies, it showers them with chemicals that cut them open, but can also damage civilian cells,

If a neutrophil encounters enemies , it showers them with chemicals that cut them open , but can also damage civilian cells ,


On top of that, the microorganisms that invade you often release chemicals and toxins that can cause significant damage and cell death.

On top of that , the microorganisms that invade you often release chemicals and toxins that can cause significant damage and cell death .


So a serious infection often causes many tiny wounds, literally holes in your organs.

So a serious infection often causes many tiny wounds , literally holes in your organs .


As you can imagine, it's not great to have holes and wounds in your organs and your body rushes to close them.

As you can imagine , it 's not great to have holes and wounds in your organs and your body rushes to close them .


Your neutrophils and macrophages help by releasing chemicals that signal the body to start repairs, and most of the damage is quickly filled up with regrowing cells.

Your neutrophils and macrophages help by releasing chemicals that signal the body to start repairs , and most of the damage is quickly filled up with regrowing cells .


But others are filled with collagen, a sort of fixal organic cement that gives your gooey tissue structural integrity.

But others are filled with collagen , a sort of fixal organic cement that gives your gooey tissue structural integrity .


You've seen the result on your skin as scars.

You 've seen the result on your skin as scars .


A scar is different from the original tissue.

A scar is different from the original tissue .


It has no functioning cells in it.


It's like a sloppily applied cement patch.

It 's like a sloppily applied cement patch .


It can't do what the original tissue was doing.

It ca n't do what the original tissue was doing .


A scar on your heart makes it beat a tiny bit weaker.

A scar on your heart makes it beat a tiny bit weaker .


A scar on the lungs no longer captures oxygen.

A scar on the lungs no longer captures oxygen .


A scar on your liver makes it a worse filter.

A scar on your liver makes it a worse filter .


And so as you go through life and survive serious disease after serious disease, the functionality of your organs may decrease.

And so as you go through life and survive serious disease after serious disease , the functionality of your organs may decrease .


The damage is usually small enough not to affect your quality of life, but can be permanent.

The damage is usually small enough not to affect your quality of life , but can be permanent .


Okay, this sounds depressing, but there is actually something you can do to avoid a lot of this damage and train your immune system.

Okay , this sounds depressing , but there is actually something you can do to avoid a lot of this damage and train your immune system .


Your immune system is unique.


Everyone has a slightly different immune system that's stronger against some enemies and weaker against others,

Everyone has a slightly different immune system that 's stronger against some enemies and weaker against others ,


Collectively, the immune system of the human species is a spectrum.

Collectively , the immune system of the human species is a spectrum .


Most people respond well enough to an infection, a few are super responders, and a few don't respond well and die.

Most people respond well enough to an infection , a few are super responders , and a few do n't respond well and die .


Some people survive the Black Death, are more resistant to HIV or coronavirus, or even resistant against Ebola.

Some people survive the Black Death , are more resistant to HIV or coronavirus , or even resistant against Ebola .


Others are killed easily by the flu or are highly vulnerable to certain bacterial infections.

Others are killed easily by the flu or are highly vulnerable to certain bacterial infections .


Where you are on this spectrum is impossible to predict, and you also respond differently to every possible infection.

Where you are on this spectrum is impossible to predict , and you also respond differently to every possible infection .


This is why seemingly very healthy young people died from COVID, while for some elderly people it was more like a mild flu.

This is why seemingly very healthy young people died from COVID , while for some elderly people it was more like a mild flu .


The idea that you can weather all sorts of diseases if you never get a cold is wrong.

The idea that you can weather all sorts of diseases if you never get a cold is wrong .


You never know what your immune system is good at until it's tested.

You never know what your immune system is good at until it 's tested .


Getting sick is a gamble in life's casino with your health on the line.

Getting sick is a gamble in life 's casino with your health on the line .


But there is something you can do, hacking one of the best features of your immune system.

But there is something you can do , hacking one of the best features of your immune system .


When you survive a disease, usually you have better defenses against it afterwards.

When you survive a disease , usually you have better defenses against it afterwards .


You gain memory cells that are very good at killing the specific enemy you fought that day.

You gain memory cells that are very good at killing the specific enemy you fought that day .


So you either don't get the disease again, or the next infection is much milder.

So you either do n't get the disease again , or the next infection is much milder .


And you can use an incredible achievement of human ingenuity that taps into this mechanism to prevent damage from disease and train your immune system.

And you can use an incredible achievement of human ingenuity that taps into this mechanism to prevent damage from disease and train your immune system .


Vaccines basically pretend to be a disease and train your defenses to be ready if it ever shows up for real.

Vaccines basically pretend to be a disease and train your defenses to be ready if it ever shows up for real .


The goal is to create the same memory cells that you would get after surviving an infection.

The goal is to create the same memory cells that you would get after surviving an infection .


But if you can feel some side effects, why should you still do it?

But if you can feel some side effects , why should you still do it ?


You have two options to train your immune system.

You have two options to train your immune system .


In Vaccine Dojo you train with paper weapons and learn to defend yourself.

In Vaccine Dojo you train with paper weapons and learn to defend yourself .


Sure, you might get a black eye or a bruise.

Sure , you might get a black eye or a bruise .


Sometimes after a vaccine you get sick for a few days, but that's generally it.

Sometimes after a vaccine you get sick for a few days , but that 's generally it .