The parasite destroys its host, blowing it apart.

The parasite destroys its host , blowing it apart .


A black hole with a mass of 100,000 suns rips its way out to hunt for new prey while leaving behind nothing but a star carcass.

A black hole with a mass of 100,000 suns rips its way out to hunt for new prey while leaving behind nothing but a star carcass .


If black hole stars existed, they could explain one of the greatest mysteries of the universe.

If black hole stars existed , they could explain one of the greatest mysteries of the universe .


The supermassive black holes we see at the center of galaxies are just too big.

The supermassive black holes we see at the center of galaxies are just too big .


They shouldn't be possible.


Black holes born from regular supernovas can be a few tens of solar masses at most.

Black holes born from regular supernovas can be a few tens of solar masses at most .


And because of the process we explained before, they grow slowly after that.

And because of the process we explained before , they grow slowly after that .


If black holes merge, they can form slightly larger black holes of over 100 solar masses.

If black holes merge , they can form slightly larger black holes of over 100 solar masses .


It should take billions and billions of years to make black holes with hundreds of thousands or even millions of solar masses.

It should take billions and billions of years to make black holes with hundreds of thousands or even millions of solar masses .


And yet, we know that some supermassive black holes already had 800 million solar masses only 690 million years after the Big Bang.

And yet , we know that some supermassive black holes already had 800 million solar masses only 690 million years after the Big Bang .


Black hole stars are a sort of black hole cheat code.

Black hole stars are a sort of black hole cheat code .


If they formed very early in our universe and the black holes that emerged from them were thousands of solar masses, then they could be the seeds for supermassive black holes.

If they formed very early in our universe and the black holes that emerged from them were thousands of solar masses , then they could be the seeds for supermassive black holes .


These seeds could take root in the center of the earliest galaxies, merging with others and drawing in enough matter to grow quickly and reliably.

These seeds could take root in the center of the earliest galaxies , merging with others and drawing in enough matter to grow quickly and reliably .


Very soon, we may be able to verify their past existence.

Very soon , we may be able to verify their past existence .


The James Webb Space Telescope is turning its sensors to explore the farthest reaches of the universe, looking back in time, back to the early universe that we couldn't see before.

The James Webb Space Telescope is turning its sensors to explore the farthest reaches of the universe , looking back in time , back to the early universe that we could n't see before .


So, with luck, we might be able to witness glimpses of these tragic titans in the brief moment between their formation and destruction.

So , with luck , we might be able to witness glimpses of these tragic titans in the brief moment between their formation and destruction .


Until then, let's do the visual journey again, just for fun.

Until then , let 's do the visual journey again , just for fun .


Stars are big.


Planning a long-term project like the James Webb Space Telescope requires some serious budgeting.

Planning a long - term project like the James Webb Space Telescope requires some serious budgeting .


But even personal finances are a nightmare to manage on your own.

But even personal finances are a nightmare to manage on your own .


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We know you've been waiting for a long time.

We know you 've been waiting for a long time .


Let's reveal the next limited edition pin.

Let 's reveal the next limited edition pin .


It's our universe to scale.


About 10 to the power of minus 35 seconds after the Big Bang, the observable universe was only the size of a marble before it expanded.

About 10 to the power of minus 35 seconds after the Big Bang , the observable universe was only the size of a marble before it expanded .


Pre-order is available for only 72 hours, so you can order it now and then never again.

Pre - order is available for only 72 hours , so you can order it now and then never again .


Add it to your pin collection or start a new one.

Add it to your pin collection or start a new one .


Pin number three will be revealed soon.

Pin number three will be revealed soon .


And as the year 12,022 is slowly coming to an end, just kidding, time flies by way too fast, we'll take a short break to recharge our batteries.

And as the year 12,022 is slowly coming to an end , just kidding , time flies by way too fast , we 'll take a short break to recharge our batteries .


We wish you a peaceful and cozy turn of the year.

We wish you a peaceful and cozy turn of the year .


See you back at full throttle in January.

See you back at full throttle in January .


Since the Industrial Revolution, humans have released over 1.5 trillion tons of carbon dioxide or CO2 into the Earth's atmosphere.

Since the Industrial Revolution , humans have released over 1.5 trillion tons of carbon dioxide or CO2 into the Earth 's atmosphere .


In the year 2019, we were still pumping out around 37 billion more.

In the year 2019 , we were still pumping out around 37 billion more .


That's 50% more than the year 2000 and almost three times as much as 50 years ago.

That 's 50 % more than the year 2000 and almost three times as much as 50 years ago .


And it's not just CO2.


We're also pumping out growing volumes of other greenhouse gases such as methane and nitrous oxide.

We 're also pumping out growing volumes of other greenhouse gases such as methane and nitrous oxide .


Combining all of our greenhouse gases, we're emitting 51 billion tons of carbon dioxide equivalents each year.

Combining all of our greenhouse gases , we 're emitting 51 billion tons of carbon dioxide equivalents each year .


And emissions keep rising.


But they need to get down to zero.


In recent years, the consequences have become more serious and visible.

In recent years , the consequences have become more serious and visible .


Almost every year breaks some horrible record.

Almost every year breaks some horrible record .


We've had more heatwaves, the most glaciers melting and the lowest amount of ice ever recorded at the North Pole.

We 've had more heatwaves , the most glaciers melting and the lowest amount of ice ever recorded at the North Pole .


Of the last 22 years, 20 have been the hottest on record.

Of the last 22 years , 20 have been the hottest on record .


The only way to limit this rapid climate change is to decrease our collective emissions quickly.

The only way to limit this rapid climate change is to decrease our collective emissions quickly .


But although all countries agree on this goal in principle, they do not agree who is responsible or who should bear the heaviest load.

But although all countries agree on this goal in principle , they do not agree who is responsible or who should bear the heaviest load .


The developed countries point at their own efforts to reduce emissions and the fact that the large developing countries on the rise,

The developed countries point at their own efforts to reduce emissions and the fact that the large developing countries on the rise ,


On the other hand, developing countries argue that emissions by the West are lifestyle emissions, while for developing countries, they are survival emissions.

On the other hand , developing countries argue that emissions by the West are lifestyle emissions , while for developing countries , they are survival emissions .


Others call rich countries hypocrites that got rich by polluting without restraint and now expect others not to industrialize and stay poor.

Others call rich countries hypocrites that got rich by polluting without restraint and now expect others not to industrialize and stay poor .


So, who is responsible for climate change and CO2 emissions?

So , who is responsible for climate change and CO2 emissions ?


And regardless of the past, who needs to do the most today?

And regardless of the past , who needs to do the most today ?


In this video, we'll talk exclusively about nation states.

In this video , we 'll talk exclusively about nation states .


We'll look at the fossil fuel industry in another video.

We 'll look at the fossil fuel industry in another video .


Question 1 of 3. Which countries emit the most carbon dioxide today?

Question 1 of 3 . Which countries emit the most carbon dioxide today ?


In 2017, humans emitted about 36 billion tons of CO2.

In 2017 , humans emitted about 36 billion tons of CO2 .


More than 50% came from Asia.


North America and Europe followed with 18% and 17%.

North America and Europe followed with 18 % and 17 % .


While Africa, South America and Oceania together only contributed 8%.

While Africa , South America and Oceania together only contributed 8 % .


China is by far the world's largest emitter with 10 billion tons of CO2 every year or 27% of global emissions.

China is by far the world 's largest emitter with 10 billion tons of CO2 every year or 27 % of global emissions .


It's followed by the USA with 15% and the European Union with around 10%.

It 's followed by the USA with 15 % and the European Union with around 10 % .


Together, this is more than half of the world's CO2 emissions.

Together , this is more than half of the world 's CO2 emissions .


So, it's clear that without the willingness and action of these three industrial blocks,

So , it 's clear that without the willingness and action of these three industrial blocks ,


humanity will not be able to become carbon neutral and prevent severe climate change.

humanity will not be able to become carbon neutral and prevent severe climate change .


Next on our list is India at 7%, Russia at 5%, Japan at 3% and Iran, Saudi Arabia, South Korea and Canada all just short of 2%.

Next on our list is India at 7 % , Russia at 5 % , Japan at 3 % and Iran , Saudi Arabia , South Korea and Canada all just short of 2 % .


Together with the first three, the top ten are responsible for 75% of global emissions.

Together with the first three , the top ten are responsible for 75 % of global emissions .


But if we only look at the current situation, we're not getting the full picture.

But if we only look at the current situation , we 're not getting the full picture .


Question 2 of 3. Which countries have emitted the most in total?

Question 2 of 3 . Which countries have emitted the most in total ?


If we look at emissions throughout history until today, the outlook changes drastically.

If we look at emissions throughout history until today , the outlook changes drastically .


The US and the EU both knock China off the top spot.

The US and the EU both knock China off the top spot .


The US is responsible for 25% of the world's historical emissions, emitting 400 billion tons, mostly in the 20th century.

The US is responsible for 25 % of the world 's historical emissions , emitting 400 billion tons , mostly in the 20th century .


In second place is the EU at 22%.


China comes in third at just under 13%, around half of the USA's contribution.

China comes in third at just under 13 % , around half of the USA 's contribution .


India's contribution shrinks to 3% along with the whole of Africa and South America.

India 's contribution shrinks to 3 % along with the whole of Africa and South America .


The UK is responsible for 1% of annual global emissions but takes 5% of the historical responsibility.

The UK is responsible for 1 % of annual global emissions but takes 5 % of the historical responsibility .


Germany, producing 2% of emissions per year today, has contributed almost 6% as much as the whole of Africa and South America combined.

Germany , producing 2 % of emissions per year today , has contributed almost 6 % as much as the whole of Africa and South America combined .


So the narrative that rapid climate change is really the responsibility of the developing world is hard to defend if facts matter to you.

So the narrative that rapid climate change is really the responsibility of the developing world is hard to defend if facts matter to you .


But this is still not the whole story, because focusing on countries mixes two things, population numbers and total emissions.

But this is still not the whole story , because focusing on countries mixes two things , population numbers and total emissions .


If a country has more people in general, its emissions are of course higher.

If a country has more people in general , its emissions are of course higher .


Things look very different if we look at individuals like you, dear viewer.

Things look very different if we look at individuals like you , dear viewer .


Question 3 of 3. Which countries emit the most carbon dioxide per person?

Question 3 of 3 . Which countries emit the most carbon dioxide per person ?


The average human is responsible for around 5 tons of CO2 each year.

The average human is responsible for around 5 tons of CO2 each year .


But averages can be misleading.


The countries with the largest CO2 emissions per person are some of the world's major oil and gas producers.

The countries with the largest CO2 emissions per person are some of the world 's major oil and gas producers .


In 2017, Qatar had the highest emissions at a hefty 49 tons per person, followed by Trinidad and Tobago, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Brunei, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.

In 2017 , Qatar had the highest emissions at a hefty 49 tons per person , followed by Trinidad and Tobago , Kuwait , the United Arab Emirates , Brunei , Bahrain and Saudi Arabia .


But those are outliers.


Australians have one of the highest carbon footprints per person, 17 tons a year.

Australians have one of the highest carbon footprints per person , 17 tons a year .


That's more than triple the global average and slightly more than the average US American and Canadian at 16 tons.

That 's more than triple the global average and slightly more than the average US American and Canadian at 16 tons .


The Germans do a little better at close to 10 tons, but this is still twice the global average.

The Germans do a little better at close to 10 tons , but this is still twice the global average .


China may be the world's largest emitter, but it's also the world's most populous country with over 1.4 billion people, 18.5% of the world population.

China may be the world 's largest emitter , but it 's also the world 's most populous country with over 1.4 billion people , 18.5 % of the world population .


Per person, it's above average at 7 tons.

Per person , it 's above average at 7 tons .


Historically, CO2 emissions have been closely tied to a high standard of living.

Historically , CO2 emissions have been closely tied to a high standard of living .


Wealth is one of the strongest indicators of our carbon footprint, because as we move from poor to rich,

Wealth is one of the strongest indicators of our carbon footprint , because as we move from poor to rich ,


we gain access to electricity, heating, air conditioning, lighting, modern cooking, cars or planes, smartphones, computers and interact with people across the world online.

we gain access to electricity , heating , air conditioning , lighting , modern cooking , cars or planes , smartphones , computers and interact with people across the world online .


The enormous rise of China's CO2 emissions is coupled with the greatest reduction of poverty in history.

The enormous rise of China 's CO2 emissions is coupled with the greatest reduction of poverty in history .


If we order CO2 emissions by income, we see that the richest half of countries are responsible for 86% of global emissions and the bottom half for only 14%.

If we order CO2 emissions by income , we see that the richest half of countries are responsible for 86 % of global emissions and the bottom half for only 14 % .


The average German emits more than five times as much as the average Indian.

The average German emits more than five times as much as the average Indian .


In just 2.3 days, the average American emits as much as the average Nigerian in a year.

In just 2.3 days , the average American emits as much as the average Nigerian in a year .


And not only that, the harsh reality is that it's the countries that contribute least to the problem that stand to lose the most from rapid climate change.

And not only that , the harsh reality is that it 's the countries that contribute least to the problem that stand to lose the most from rapid climate change .


The developing world will be hit the hardest.

The developing world will be hit the hardest .


The consequences could be food insecurity, conflicts over resources, harsher and more frequent natural disasters and large climate refugee movements.

The consequences could be food insecurity , conflicts over resources , harsher and more frequent natural disasters and large climate refugee movements .


Question 4/3. So who should take responsibility ?

Question 4/3 . So who should take responsibility ?


Many of today's richest countries are in a convenient position.

Many of today 's richest countries are in a convenient position .


They have become rich over centuries of fossil fuel burning and industrial production.

They have become rich over centuries of fossil fuel burning and industrial production .


They have a large historical footprint and their wealth means they still emit a lot per person.

They have a large historical footprint and their wealth means they still emit a lot per person .


But their country's annual emissions are now dwarfed by other countries because the giant that is China is finally catching up and other giants like India are on their way.

But their country 's annual emissions are now dwarfed by other countries because the giant that is China is finally catching up and other giants like India are on their way .


Many Germans, for example, wonder how, if Germany only accounts for 2% of yearly emissions, it can have a meaningful impact on reducing emissions.

Many Germans , for example , wonder how , if Germany only accounts for 2 % of yearly emissions , it can have a meaningful impact on reducing emissions .


The answer is simple.


For one, the richest countries have the resources, highly educated workforces and technology to develop low-cost, low-carbon solutions and spread them around the world.

For one , the richest countries have the resources , highly educated workforces and technology to develop low - cost , low - carbon solutions and spread them around the world .


If we don't want poorer countries to become as fossil fuel dependent as we are, we need low-carbon technology to be cheap and available.

If we do n't want poorer countries to become as fossil fuel dependent as we are , we need low - carbon technology to be cheap and available .


And we're getting there.


The cost of renewables is falling quickly and a variety of solutions are on the horizon for many different sectors.

The cost of renewables is falling quickly and a variety of solutions are on the horizon for many different sectors .


But it needs to happen much faster.


If the rich countries of the West decide to seriously tackle rapid climate change, the rest of the world would follow because it has no choice.

If the rich countries of the West decide to seriously tackle rapid climate change , the rest of the world would follow because it has no choice .


the rest of the world adopted them too because they wanted to be able to continue trading with the bloc.

the rest of the world adopted them too because they wanted to be able to continue trading with the bloc .


Still, this doesn't absolve others of their responsibility.

Still , this does n't absolve others of their responsibility .


China is the largest CO2 emitter today and it's China's responsibility to grow in a way that will make it possible to transition to a zero-carbon world in time.

China is the largest CO2 emitter today and it 's China 's responsibility to grow in a way that will make it possible to transition to a zero - carbon world in time .


Others acting irresponsibly yesterday is a horrible excuse for repeating the same mistakes today.

Others acting irresponsibly yesterday is a horrible excuse for repeating the same mistakes today .


Climate change is a global problem and no country alone can fix it.

Climate change is a global problem and no country alone can fix it .


Working out who's responsible is not as simple as it seems and in a way it's a daft question, but one that has plagued international politics for decades.

Working out who 's responsible is not as simple as it seems and in a way it 's a daft question , but one that has plagued international politics for decades .


In the end, it's pretty simple.


Everybody needs to do the best they can.

Everybody needs to do the best they can .


But we can begin today.


If you had to choose right now, how long would you want to live?

If you had to choose right now , how long would you want to live ?


And do you think you'll change your mind once you reach that age?

And do you think you 'll change your mind once you reach that age ?


50,000 years ago, most humans died very young.

50,000 years ago , most humans died very young .


As we learned how to use the resources around us to treat ourselves, this got better and better.

As we learned how to use the resources around us to treat ourselves , this got better and better .


Today, humans are living longer and healthier lives than ever before.

Today , humans are living longer and healthier lives than ever before .


But this has an unforeseen consequence.

But this has an unforeseen consequence .


We spend an ever-increasing part of our lives being sick and in need of care.

We spend an ever - increasing part of our lives being sick and in need of care .


Most of us will die in a hospital bed, which is depressing enough by itself, but we also have to witness the same happening to our loved ones.

Most of us will die in a hospital bed , which is depressing enough by itself , but we also have to witness the same happening to our loved ones .


Except, maybe, we can stop this forever.

Except , maybe , we can stop this forever .


The most effective way to treat a disease is to prevent it.

The most effective way to treat a disease is to prevent it .


It saves many more lives if you stop a million people from smoking than coming up with better chemotherapies.

It saves many more lives if you stop a million people from smoking than coming up with better chemotherapies .


In a nutshell, aging is caused by physics and not biology.

In a nutshell , aging is caused by physics and not biology .


Think of cars.


Parts wear down from rubbing and grinding.

Parts wear down from rubbing and grinding .


Metal rusts, filters get plugged, rubber cracks.

Metal rusts , filters get plugged , rubber cracks .


Our bodies are worn down by trillions of tiny physical processes.

Our bodies are worn down by trillions of tiny physical processes .


Our bodies have many mechanisms to repair this damage, but over time they become less effective.

Our bodies have many mechanisms to repair this damage , but over time they become less effective .


So our bones and muscles weaken, our skin wrinkles, our immune system gets weaker.

So our bones and muscles weaken , our skin wrinkles , our immune system gets weaker .


We lose our memory and our senses diminish.

We lose our memory and our senses diminish .


There's no such thing as dying of old age.

There 's no such thing as dying of old age .


We still die because one of our important parts breaks.

We still die because one of our important parts breaks .


The older we get, the more damaged and fragile we become, until one or multiple diseases take over and kill us.

The older we get , the more damaged and fragile we become , until one or multiple diseases take over and kill us .


Unnoticed by most of us, longevity research has made some unprecedented advances in the last few years.

Unnoticed by most of us , longevity research has made some unprecedented advances in the last few years .


For the first time, we're starting to understand the mechanisms behind aging and how to manipulate them.

For the first time , we 're starting to understand the mechanisms behind aging and how to manipulate them .


Aging is neither mystical nor inevitable, and we might be able to stop or delay it during your lifetime.

Aging is neither mystical nor inevitable , and we might be able to stop or delay it during your lifetime .


We'll discuss the science behind it and how scientists are trying to stop it in another video.

We 'll discuss the science behind it and how scientists are trying to stop it in another video .


But first, if we could, should we end aging?

But first , if we could , should we end aging ?


Is this a good idea?


The end of aging or life extension makes many people uncomfortable.

The end of aging or life extension makes many people uncomfortable .


We're born, are young, become older, and then we die.

We 're born , are young , become older , and then we die .


This has been the natural order for literally all of human history.

This has been the natural order for literally all of human history .


And getting old is a good thing, right?

And getting old is a good thing , right ?


We celebrate the idea of living long enough to experience old age.

We celebrate the idea of living long enough to experience old age .


We even call them the golden years.


But the reality is that everybody wants to become old, but nobody wants to be old.

But the reality is that everybody wants to become old , but nobody wants to be old .


Think of the Greek myth of Tythonus, for example.

Think of the Greek myth of Tythonus , for example .


Tythonus was the lover of the goddess Eos, and probably an amazing dude, because she begged Zeus to grant him immortality so they could spend eternity together.

Tythonus was the lover of the goddess Eos , and probably an amazing dude , because she begged Zeus to grant him immortality so they could spend eternity together .


But she forgot to specifically ask for eternal youth.

But she forgot to specifically ask for eternal youth .


Tythonus was granted eternal life, but he kept aging, unable to die.

Tythonus was granted eternal life , but he kept aging , unable to die .


After a few hundred years, he was reduced to the size of a grape, babbling on senselessly forever.

After a few hundred years , he was reduced to the size of a grape , babbling on senselessly forever .


Thousands of years ago, humans already feared never-ending old age.

Thousands of years ago , humans already feared never - ending old age .


But ending aging does not mean getting weaker and weaker.

But ending aging does not mean getting weaker and weaker .


If you become too old, it's too late.

If you become too old , it 's too late .


A 90-year-old who stopped aging would die anyway after a few years.

A 90 - year - old who stopped aging would die anyway after a few years .


Too much damage has been done to his internal machinery.

Too much damage has been done to his internal machinery .


There are already too many surfaces for disease to attack.

There are already too many surfaces for disease to attack .


Instead, the concept of life extension promises to end diseases, and with them, the end of a fixed maximum age.

Instead , the concept of life extension promises to end diseases , and with them , the end of a fixed maximum age .


We don't know how much we could prolong our lives.

We do n't know how much we could prolong our lives .


We might make every human healthy to the currently accepted maximum age of around 120, or we might stop biological aging and disease indefinitely.

We might make every human healthy to the currently accepted maximum age of around 120 , or we might stop biological aging and disease indefinitely .


Nobody knows at this point what's possible.

Nobody knows at this point what 's possible .


Well, life extension is really just another phrase for medicine.

Well , life extension is really just another phrase for medicine .


All the doctors are doing is trying to prolong life and minimize suffering.

All the doctors are doing is trying to prolong life and minimize suffering .


The vast majority of healthcare resources are spent on the consequences of aging.

The vast majority of healthcare resources are spent on the consequences of aging .


Nearly half of your lifetime healthcare costs will be spent during your senior years, and another third during middle age.

Nearly half of your lifetime healthcare costs will be spent during your senior years , and another third during middle age .


We are actually already trying to prolong life with our current medicine, we're just doing it very inefficiently.

We are actually already trying to prolong life with our current medicine , we 're just doing it very inefficiently .


Trying to stop aging from happening is not less natural than transplanting a heart, treating cancer with chemotherapy, using antibiotics or vaccines.

Trying to stop aging from happening is not less natural than transplanting a heart , treating cancer with chemotherapy , using antibiotics or vaccines .


Nothing humans do nowadays is purely natural anymore, and we enjoy the highest standard of living ever as a consequence of that.

Nothing humans do nowadays is purely natural anymore , and we enjoy the highest standard of living ever as a consequence of that .


What we're doing right now is waiting until it's too late and the machine is failing.

What we 're doing right now is waiting until it 's too late and the machine is failing .


And then we use the vast majority of our resources trying to fix it as well as we can, while it breaks down even further.

And then we use the vast majority of our resources trying to fix it as well as we can , while it breaks down even further .


But life extension still feels hubristic.

But life extension still feels hubristic .


Most people assume that they will want to die once they reach a certain age, and this might still be true.

Most people assume that they will want to die once they reach a certain age , and this might still be true .


The idea of avoiding death entirely is off-putting for many.

The idea of avoiding death entirely is off - putting for many .


The end of biological aging would not mean the end of death in any way.

The end of biological aging would not mean the end of death in any way .


It's more like a summer evening when you were a kid and your mum called you inside.

It 's more like a summer evening when you were a kid and your mum called you inside .


You just wanted to keep playing, have a little more fun during sunset, before you went to sleep.

You just wanted to keep playing , have a little more fun during sunset , before you went to sleep .


It's not about playing outside forever, just a little longer until we feel tired.

It 's not about playing outside forever , just a little longer until we feel tired .


If you imagine a world without disease where you and your loved ones could live in good health for another 100 or 200 years, how would this change us?

If you imagine a world without disease where you and your loved ones could live in good health for another 100 or 200 years , how would this change us ?


Would we take better care of our planet if we knew we would be around longer?

Would we take better care of our planet if we knew we would be around longer ?


If we could work for 150 years, how much time would we spend figuring out what we're good at?

If we could work for 150 years , how much time would we spend figuring out what we 're good at ?


How much more time would we spend learning?

How much more time would we spend learning ?


Would the intense feeling of pressure and stress many of us are feeling right now go away or get worse?

Would the intense feeling of pressure and stress many of us are feeling right now go away or get worse ?


So, asking again, if you could choose how long to live right now, in good health and with your friends and family, what's your personal answer?

So , asking again , if you could choose how long to live right now , in good health and with your friends and family , what 's your personal answer ?


What would you like your future to look like?

What would you like your future to look like ?


But maybe you're still unconvinced.


Some nagging feeling remains.


That is the reaper whispering into your brain.

That is the reaper whispering into your brain .


Watch my video to hear what he says and why you shouldn't listen.

Watch my video to hear what he says and why you should n't listen .


Your eternal future may depend on it.


And if you're not already subscribed, subscribe.

And if you 're not already subscribed , subscribe .


Imagine NASA announced today that they found aliens.

Imagine NASA announced today that they found aliens .


Wouldn't that be great?


Well, no, it would be horrible news.


It could mean that the end of humanity is almost certain, and that it might be coming soon.

It could mean that the end of humanity is almost certain , and that it might be coming soon .


Why would the most exciting discovery of our lifetime be bad?

Why would the most exciting discovery of our lifetime be bad ?


Let us imagine the development of life from its inception to us today as a flight of stairs.

Let us imagine the development of life from its inception to us today as a flight of stairs .


The first step is dead chemistry that needs to assemble itself into self-replicating patterns, stable and resilient, but also able to change and evolve.

The first step is dead chemistry that needs to assemble itself into self - replicating patterns , stable and resilient , but also able to change and evolve .


The second step is for our early life to become more complex, able to build more complicated structures, and use the available energy much more efficiently.

The second step is for our early life to become more complex , able to build more complicated structures , and use the available energy much more efficiently .


On the next step, these cells combine to become multicellular beings, enabling unbelievable variety and further complexity.

On the next step , these cells combine to become multicellular beings , enabling unbelievable variety and further complexity .


The step above sees the species evolve big brains, enabling the use of tools, culture, and shared knowledge, which creates even higher complexity.

The step above sees the species evolve big brains , enabling the use of tools , culture , and shared knowledge , which creates even higher complexity .


The species can now become the dominant life form on its planet, and change it according to its needs.

The species can now become the dominant life form on its planet , and change it according to its needs .


First, shy attempts to leave its planet are happening.

First , shy attempts to leave its planet are happening .


This is where we are now.


It's in the nature of life as we know it to reach out, to cover every niche it can.

It 's in the nature of life as we know it to reach out , to cover every niche it can .


And since planets have a limited carrying capacity and lifespan, if a species wants to survive, it will look for more places to spread to.

And since planets have a limited carrying capacity and lifespan , if a species wants to survive , it will look for more places to spread to .


So the steps above the current ones seem logical.

So the steps above the current ones seem logical .


Colonize your own solar system, then spread further to reach other stars, to the possible final step, becoming a galaxy-wide civilization.

Colonize your own solar system , then spread further to reach other stars , to the possible final step , becoming a galaxy - wide civilization .


It's very likely that this is a universal principle for civilizations, no matter where they're from.

It 's very likely that this is a universal principle for civilizations , no matter where they 're from .


If a species is competitive and driven enough to take control over its planet, they'll probably not stop there.

If a species is competitive and driven enough to take control over its planet , they 'll probably not stop there .


We know that there are up to 500 billion planets in the Milky Way, at least 10 billion Earth-like planets.

We know that there are up to 500 billion planets in the Milky Way , at least 10 billion Earth - like planets .


Many have been around billions of years longer than Earth.

Many have been around billions of years longer than Earth .


But we're observing zero galactic civilizations.

But we 're observing zero galactic civilizations .


We should be able to see something, but there's nothing.

We should be able to see something , but there 's nothing .


Space seems to be empty and dead.


This means something is preventing living things from climbing the staircase beyond the step we're on right now.

This means something is preventing living things from climbing the staircase beyond the step we 're on right now .


This is the Great Filter, a challenge or danger so hard to overcome, that it eliminates almost every species that encounters it.

This is the Great Filter , a challenge or danger so hard to overcome , that it eliminates almost every species that encounters it .


There are two scenarios.


One means we are incredibly special and lucky.

One means we are incredibly special and lucky .


The other one means we are doomed and practically already dead.

The other one means we are doomed and practically already dead .


It depends on where the filter is on our staircase.

It depends on where the filter is on our staircase .


Scenario 1. The filter is behind us.


We are the first.


If the filter is behind us, that means that one of the steps we passed is almost impossible to take.

If the filter is behind us , that means that one of the steps we passed is almost impossible to take .


Which step could it be?


Is life itself extremely rare?


It's very hard to make predictions about how likely it is for life to emerge from dead things.

It 's very hard to make predictions about how likely it is for life to emerge from dead things .


There is no consensus.


Some scientists think it develops everywhere where the conditions are right.

Some scientists think it develops everywhere where the conditions are right .


Others think that Earth might be the only living place in the universe.

Others think that Earth might be the only living place in the universe .


Another candidate is the step of complex animal cells.

Another candidate is the step of complex animal cells .


A very specific thing happened on this step, and as far as we know, it happened exactly once.

A very specific thing happened on this step , and as far as we know , it happened exactly once .


A primitive hunter cell swallowed another cell.

A primitive hunter cell swallowed another cell .


But instead of devouring it, the two cells formed a union.

But instead of devouring it , the two cells formed a union .


The bigger cell provided shelter, took care of interacting with the environment and providing resources,

The bigger cell provided shelter , took care of interacting with the environment and providing resources ,


while the smaller one used its new home and free stuff to focus on providing a lot of extra energy for its host.

while the smaller one used its new home and free stuff to focus on providing a lot of extra energy for its host .


With the abundant energy, the host cell could grow more than before and build new and expensive things to improve itself,

With the abundant energy , the host cell could grow more than before and build new and expensive things to improve itself ,


while the guest became the powerhouse of the cell.

while the guest became the powerhouse of the cell .


These cells make up every animal on the planet.

These cells make up every animal on the planet .


Maybe there are billions of bacteria-covered planets in the Milky Way, but not a single one apart from us has achieved our level of complexity.

Maybe there are billions of bacteria - covered planets in the Milky Way , but not a single one apart from us has achieved our level of complexity .


We humans feel very smart and sophisticated with our crossword puzzles and romantic novels, but a big brain is, first and foremost, a very expensive evolutionary investment.

We humans feel very smart and sophisticated with our crossword puzzles and romantic novels , but a big brain is , first and foremost , a very expensive evolutionary investment .


They are fragile, they don't help in a fistfight with a bear, they cost enormous amounts of energy.

They are fragile , they do n't help in a fistfight with a bear , they cost enormous amounts of energy .


And despite them, it took modern humans 200,000 years to get from sharp sticks to civilization.

And despite them , it took modern humans 200,000 years to get from sharp sticks to civilization .


Being smart does not mean you get to win automatically.

Being smart does not mean you get to win automatically .


Maybe intelligence is just not so great, and we're lucky that it worked out for us.

Maybe intelligence is just not so great , and we 're lucky that it worked out for us .


Scenario 2. The filter is ahead of us.

Scenario 2 . The filter is ahead of us .


Plenty of others died already.


A great filter before us is orders of magnitude more dangerous than anything we encountered so far.

A great filter before us is orders of magnitude more dangerous than anything we encountered so far .


Even if a major disaster killed most of us or threw us back thousands of years, we would survive and recover.

Even if a major disaster killed most of us or threw us back thousands of years , we would survive and recover .


And if we can recover, even if it takes a million years, then it's not a great filter, but just a roadblock to an eventual galactic civilization.

And if we can recover , even if it takes a million years , then it 's not a great filter , but just a roadblock to an eventual galactic civilization .


On universal timescales, even millions of years are just the blink of an eye.

On universal timescales , even millions of years are just the blink of an eye .


If a great filter really lies before us, it has to be so dangerous, so purely devastating and powerful,

If a great filter really lies before us , it has to be so dangerous , so purely devastating and powerful ,


that it has destroyed most, if not all, advanced civilizations in our galaxy over billions of years.

that it has destroyed most , if not all , advanced civilizations in our galaxy over billions of years .


A really daunting and depressing hypothesis is that once a species takes control over its planet, it's already on the path to self-destruction.

A really daunting and depressing hypothesis is that once a species takes control over its planet , it 's already on the path to self - destruction .


Technology is a good way to achieve that.

Technology is a good way to achieve that .


It needs to be something that's so obvious that virtually everybody discovers it, and so dangerous that its discovery leads almost universally to an existential disaster.

It needs to be something that 's so obvious that virtually everybody discovers it , and so dangerous that its discovery leads almost universally to an existential disaster .


It might be a super-intelligent AI that accidentally or purposely destroys its creators.

It might be a super - intelligent AI that accidentally or purposely destroys its creators .


Or it's way simpler.


Species competitive enough to take over their planet necessarily destroy it while competing with each other for resources.

Species competitive enough to take over their planet necessarily destroy it while competing with each other for resources .


Maybe there are runaway chain reactions in every ecosystem that once set in motion are not fixable.

Maybe there are runaway chain reactions in every ecosystem that once set in motion are not fixable .


And so once a civilization is powerful enough to change the composition of its atmosphere, they make their planet uninhabitable 100% of the time.

And so once a civilization is powerful enough to change the composition of its atmosphere , they make their planet uninhabitable 100 % of the time .


Let's hope that that's not the case.


If the filter is ahead of us, our odds are really bad.

If the filter is ahead of us , our odds are really bad .


What we can hope for.


This is why finding life beyond Earth would be horrible.

This is why finding life beyond Earth would be horrible .


The more common life is in the universe, and the more advanced and complex it is, the more likely it becomes that a filter is in front of us.

The more common life is in the universe , and the more advanced and complex it is , the more likely it becomes that a filter is in front of us .


Bacteria would be bad, small animals would be worse, intelligent life would be alarming.

Bacteria would be bad , small animals would be worse , intelligent life would be alarming .


Ruins of ancient alien civilizations would be horrible.

Ruins of ancient alien civilizations would be horrible .


The best case scenario for us right now is that Mars is sterile.

The best case scenario for us right now is that Mars is sterile .


That Europa's oceans are devoid of life, and the vast arms of the Milky Way harbor only empty oceans hugging dead continents.

That Europa 's oceans are devoid of life , and the vast arms of the Milky Way harbor only empty oceans hugging dead continents .


That there are billions of empty planets waiting to be discovered and to be filled up with life.

That there are billions of empty planets waiting to be discovered and to be filled up with life .


How likely is it that we'll find life outside of Earth that is similar to us?

How likely is it that we 'll find life outside of Earth that is similar to us ?


Well, that depends on how many planets there are out there in their star's Goldilocks zone, the area around a star where water can be liquid.

Well , that depends on how many planets there are out there in their star 's Goldilocks zone , the area around a star where water can be liquid .


Because stars come in all sizes and configurations, this zone is different for every star system and requires a little bit of physics to figure out.

Because stars come in all sizes and configurations , this zone is different for every star system and requires a little bit of physics to figure out .


If that sounds like fun to you, this quiz from Brilliant helps to break down the maths for exactly how this is calculated.

If that sounds like fun to you , this quiz from Brilliant helps to break down the maths for exactly how this is calculated .


Brilliant is a problem-solving website that teaches you to think like a scientist by guiding you through problems.

Brilliant is a problem - solving website that teaches you to think like a scientist by guiding you through problems .


They take concepts like these, break them up into bite-sized bits, present clear thinking in each part and then build back up to an interesting conclusion.

They take concepts like these , break them up into bite - sized bits , present clear thinking in each part and then build back up to an interesting conclusion .


If you visit brilliant.org/nutshell or click the link in the description, you can sign up for free and learn all kinds of things.

If you visit brilliant.org/nutshell or click the link in the description , you can sign up for free and learn all kinds of things .


And as a bonus for Kurzgesagt viewers, the first 688 people will also get 20% off their annual membership.

And as a bonus for Kurzgesagt viewers , the first 688 people will also get 20 % off their annual membership .


And if you do find life on other planets, it may be wise to leave them alone for a while.

And if you do find life on other planets , it may be wise to leave them alone for a while .


The universe is magnificent and vast.


If even the tiniest fraction are habitable, then the universe should be teeming with life.

If even the tiniest fraction are habitable , then the universe should be teeming with life .


And yet we see nothing, only vast emptiness.

And yet we see nothing , only vast emptiness .


Where is everyone else?


The answer to this riddle could be as exciting as it is creepy.

The answer to this riddle could be as exciting as it is creepy .


We are early, born before almost all other life.

We are early , born before almost all other life .


But very soon, this may change.


Not only might aliens appear, they could quickly surround us.

Not only might aliens appear , they could quickly surround us .


An irreversible competition for the universe might be about to begin.

An irreversible competition for the universe might be about to begin .


While this video is based on scientific papers, we're presenting interesting ideas based on little data and lots of extrapolation.

While this video is based on scientific papers , we 're presenting interesting ideas based on little data and lots of extrapolation .


So take them with a grain of salt.


Okay, we need to look at three essential questions to understand the galactic competition.

Okay , we need to look at three essential questions to understand the galactic competition .


One, how fast can bacteria build spaceships?

One , how fast can bacteria build spaceships ?


To become a starfaring civilization, life as we know it needs to master a number of very hard steps.

To become a starfaring civilization , life as we know it needs to master a number of very hard steps .


It starts with dead stuff turning into the building blocks of life.

It starts with dead stuff turning into the building blocks of life .


Then it needs to organize into self-contained cells.

Then it needs to organize into self - contained cells .


Those cells have to learn to work together to form multicellular organisms.

Those cells have to learn to work together to form multicellular organisms .


This keeps going until complex creatures with big brains learn to use tools and language.

This keeps going until complex creatures with big brains learn to use tools and language .


Civilization has to be formed from cultures that value progress and technological development.

Civilization has to be formed from cultures that value progress and technological development .


And then they need to actually venture out beyond their home planet.

And then they need to actually venture out beyond their home planet .


On Earth, life appeared basically as soon as the oceans formed.

On Earth , life appeared basically as soon as the oceans formed .


But then it took two billion years to make the step from single cells to multicellular organisms and two billion more for us to appear.

But then it took two billion years to make the step from single cells to multicellular organisms and two billion more for us to appear .


Culture, civilization, and space travel developed super quickly though.

Culture , civilization , and space travel developed super quickly though .


Do things always take that long or was this actually exceptionally fast?

Do things always take that long or was this actually exceptionally fast ?


Also, passing one step does not mean the next one is guaranteed.

Also , passing one step does not mean the next one is guaranteed .


Multicellularity evolved over 25 times independently on Earth, but there's only one species that builds spaceships.

Multicellularity evolved over 25 times independently on Earth , but there 's only one species that builds spaceships .


We don't know how many steps life needs to pass and how long they take to give rise to a technological civilization, but there are probably many and it's likely that on trillions of planets life has been trying for billions of years.

We do n't know how many steps life needs to pass and how long they take to give rise to a technological civilization , but there are probably many and it 's likely that on trillions of planets life has been trying for billions of years .


Since we don't see any other technological civilizations out there, it might well be that we are a rare exception.

Since we do n't see any other technological civilizations out there , it might well be that we are a rare exception .


We might be among the first or even the first technological civilization in the Milky Way.

We might be among the first or even the first technological civilization in the Milky Way .


But this is just one piece of the puzzle.

But this is just one piece of the puzzle .


On top of that, we may have just hit the perfect time window.

On top of that , we may have just hit the perfect time window .


Why does humanity exist now?


The universe is already 13.8 billion years old, but it's unlikely that many other technological civilizations had a chance to appear before us.

The universe is already 13.8 billion years old , but it 's unlikely that many other technological civilizations had a chance to appear before us .


Because in the earlier universe, life would have had a pretty hard time to emerge, let alone thrive, because it was such a hostile environment.

Because in the earlier universe , life would have had a pretty hard time to emerge , let alone thrive , because it was such a hostile environment .


Early stars constantly blew up, galaxies crashed into each other, and supermassive black holes vomited massive amounts of radiation, enough to sterilize galaxies over and over again.

Early stars constantly blew up , galaxies crashed into each other , and supermassive black holes vomited massive amounts of radiation , enough to sterilize galaxies over and over again .


Our sun was born right at the end of this cosmic death show.

Our sun was born right at the end of this cosmic death show .


The universe has never been more welcoming to life than it is now.

The universe has never been more welcoming to life than it is now .


So humanity has arrived at a very convenient spot in time, maybe the earliest reasonably possible for life to thrive.

So humanity has arrived at a very convenient spot in time , maybe the earliest reasonably possible for life to thrive .


The sun burns brighter than 90% of the stars in our galaxy, and will keep getting brighter.

The sun burns brighter than 90 % of the stars in our galaxy , and will keep getting brighter .


In about a billion years, it will boil all of Earth's oceans, and then become a giant that swallows it whole.

In about a billion years , it will boil all of Earth 's oceans , and then become a giant that swallows it whole .


So in the galactic context, the sun is very short-lived.

So in the galactic context , the sun is very short - lived .


Most stars are red dwarfs that can sustain habitable planets for tens of trillions of years.

Most stars are red dwarfs that can sustain habitable planets for tens of trillions of years .


Life on these planets has an incredibly long time window to appear, and pass the hard steps.

Life on these planets has an incredibly long time window to appear , and pass the hard steps .


Even knowing nothing about how rare or common life is, this makes it way more likely for technological civilizations to appear sometime in the future than in the past.

Even knowing nothing about how rare or common life is , this makes it way more likely for technological civilizations to appear sometime in the future than in the past .


Because if civilizations appear at random in the Milky Way within a time window of a trillion years, very few, if any, would appear before today.

Because if civilizations appear at random in the Milky Way within a time window of a trillion years , very few , if any , would appear before today .


Then a couple more arrive in this period of a billion years that we're in, before all star-faring civilizations that could ever exist emerge altogether.

Then a couple more arrive in this period of a billion years that we 're in , before all star - faring civilizations that could ever exist emerge altogether .


This weird tsunami-like distribution is the result of both the hard steps model, and something else.

This weird tsunami - like distribution is the result of both the hard steps model , and something else .


Any civilization coming after will find it hard to have room to survive, so all potential life has to cram in before it.

Any civilization coming after will find it hard to have room to survive , so all potential life has to cram in before it .


Humanity exists now because otherwise, we might have missed this deadline.

Humanity exists now because otherwise , we might have missed this deadline .


What, or who, creates this deadline?


Why aren't aliens already on Earth?


Humans are curious, expansionist, and hungry for energy.

Humans are curious , expansionist , and hungry for energy .


We've spread over the world and made it our own.

We 've spread over the world and made it our own .


Our technology has been improving over time, first slowly, then breathtakingly fast.

Our technology has been improving over time , first slowly , then breathtakingly fast .


If these things don't change drastically, and our descendants want to prosper, they will expand into space.

If these things do n't change drastically , and our descendants want to prosper , they will expand into space .


We could construct a Dyson Swarm for endless energy and transform planets into new homes.

We could construct a Dyson Swarm for endless energy and transform planets into new homes .


We could cross interstellar distances, allowing us to reach for planets around distant stars.

We could cross interstellar distances , allowing us to reach for planets around distant stars .


If we have the motivation, we can become a galactic civilization.

If we have the motivation , we can become a galactic civilization .


A civilization that does this sort of stuff can be called loud, because its activity creates noise.

A civilization that does this sort of stuff can be called loud , because its activity creates noise .


Imagine someone in a forest, cutting down trees, starting fires, and laying down roads.

Imagine someone in a forest , cutting down trees , starting fires , and laying down roads .


The more intense their work, the easier they are to notice.

The more intense their work , the easier they are to notice .


An expanding technological civilization would probably be hard to miss.

An expanding technological civilization would probably be hard to miss .


Our telescopes would pick up all that energy, and we would clearly identify artificial interference with stars and planets.

Our telescopes would pick up all that energy , and we would clearly identify artificial interference with stars and planets .


Another consequence of this business is that it's very disruptive to the environment.

Another consequence of this business is that it 's very disruptive to the environment .


Clearing a forest means the end of its wildlife.

Clearing a forest means the end of its wildlife .


Human activity has left no chance for a squirrel civilization to appear.

Human activity has left no chance for a squirrel civilization to appear .


Not because we hated squirrels, it's simply that the thought that they might want to do that at some point never crossed our minds, and we needed wood.

Not because we hated squirrels , it 's simply that the thought that they might want to do that at some point never crossed our minds , and we needed wood .


Similarly, if loud civilizations were running around the galaxy in the past, terraforming planets, or harvesting the energy of stars, they may have prevented our existence.

Similarly , if loud civilizations were running around the galaxy in the past , terraforming planets , or harvesting the energy of stars , they may have prevented our existence .


Had aliens started colonizing Earth while we were still sludge in the oceans, that sludge would never have turned into humans.

Had aliens started colonizing Earth while we were still sludge in the oceans , that sludge would never have turned into humans .


This is how loud aliens create a deadline for new civilizations appearing.

This is how loud aliens create a deadline for new civilizations appearing .


The galaxy may have trillions of years to create life, but there may only be a short window for it to spread and thrive.

The galaxy may have trillions of years to create life , but there may only be a short window for it to spread and thrive .


Even if a loud civilization respects planets with naturally occurring life and expands around them, like humans do with wildlife reserves, any civilization on such a planet would not be able to expand ever.

Even if a loud civilization respects planets with naturally occurring life and expands around them , like humans do with wildlife reserves , any civilization on such a planet would not be able to expand ever .


But here we are, so loud aliens were probably never here.

But here we are , so loud aliens were probably never here .


They would be quiet aliens.


They're probably limited to one star system, and don't have a noticeable impact on their cosmic surroundings.

They 're probably limited to one star system , and do n't have a noticeable impact on their cosmic surroundings .


Humanity is like this right now.


We wouldn't be able to detect ourselves from the other side of the Milky Way.

We would n't be able to detect ourselves from the other side of the Milky Way .


If they stay quiet forever, maybe because of their culture or abilities, then they are not really a concern for us.

If they stay quiet forever , maybe because of their culture or abilities , then they are not really a concern for us .


We only have one sample to draw from, humanity, and right now we are on the path to becoming loud.

We only have one sample to draw from , humanity , and right now we are on the path to becoming loud .


If we're not special and succeed anyway, then any other civilization with the motivation and resources to would eventually expand beyond its planet of origin.

If we 're not special and succeed anyway , then any other civilization with the motivation and resources to would eventually expand beyond its planet of origin .


Okay, what are the consequences of all these assumptions and ideas?

Okay , what are the consequences of all these assumptions and ideas ?


If we are really early, then eventually others will catch up with us.

If we are really early , then eventually others will catch up with us .


Civilizations will emerge all over the place, and these new aliens will look at space, see no signs of life, and come to the same conclusion.

Civilizations will emerge all over the place , and these new aliens will look at space , see no signs of life , and come to the same conclusion .


They exist because loud civilizations have not yet taken over everything, but it only takes one loud civilization to crowd them out of the entire galaxy.

They exist because loud civilizations have not yet taken over everything , but it only takes one loud civilization to crowd them out of the entire galaxy .


They, like us, will face an important decision.

They , like us , will face an important decision .


Do they stay quiet, take it easy, and tend to their planet for as long as possible, or do they start expanding to take a chunk of the galaxy before someone else arrives?

Do they stay quiet , take it easy , and tend to their planet for as long as possible , or do they start expanding to take a chunk of the galaxy before someone else arrives ?


Meeting others does not necessarily mean war or conflict, but it means that new borders will arise, limits that may persist forever.

Meeting others does not necessarily mean war or conflict , but it means that new borders will arise , limits that may persist forever .


In the worst case, a civilization could be completely enveloped by the empires of others, eternally doomed to be a galactic backwater without control over their fate.

In the worst case , a civilization could be completely enveloped by the empires of others , eternally doomed to be a galactic backwater without control over their fate .


So if we want a seat at the galactic adults' table, we best get to work.

So if we want a seat at the galactic adults ' table , we best get to work .


If we really are early, we have an incredible opportunity.

If we really are early , we have an incredible opportunity .


And one day when we meet others, we can greet them and meet them as equals.

And one day when we meet others , we can greet them and meet them as equals .


Wouldn't that be nice?


If you want to explore the vast universe from the comfort of your own home, we've got a lot of amazing space and science-inspired products for you.

If you want to explore the vast universe from the comfort of your own home , we 've got a lot of amazing space and science - inspired products for you .


All of our products are designed and produced with love and care by us here at Kurzgesagt.

All of our products are designed and produced with love and care by us here at Kurzgesagt .


They're an integral part of the science story we try to tell, so start your journey on our channel and continue it with one of our posters, notebooks or plushes.

They 're an integral part of the science story we try to tell , so start your journey on our channel and continue it with one of our posters , notebooks or plushes .


Every purchase directly funds what we do on this channel.

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And never stop dreaming of space adventures.

And never stop dreaming of space adventures .


At this very second, you are on a narrow ledge between life and death.

At this very second , you are on a narrow ledge between life and death .


You probably don't feel it, but there's an incredible amount of activity going on inside you.

You probably do n't feel it , but there 's an incredible amount of activity going on inside you .


And this activity can never stop.


Picture yourself as a slinky falling down an escalator moving upwards.

Picture yourself as a slinky falling down an escalator moving upwards .


The falling part represents the self-replicating processes of your cells.

The falling part represents the self - replicating processes of your cells .


The escalator represents the lords of physics driving you forwards.

The escalator represents the lords of physics driving you forwards .


To be alive is to be in motion but never arriving anywhere.

To be alive is to be in motion but never arriving anywhere .


If you reach the top of the escalator, there's no more falling possible and you are dead forever.

If you reach the top of the escalator , there 's no more falling possible and you are dead forever .


Somewhat unsettlingly, the universe wants you to reach the top.

Somewhat unsettlingly , the universe wants you to reach the top .


How do you avoid that and why are you alive?

How do you avoid that and why are you alive ?


All life is based on the cell.


A cell is a piece of the dead universe that separated itself from the rest so it could do its own thing for a while.

A cell is a piece of the dead universe that separated itself from the rest so it could do its own thing for a while .


When this separation breaks down, it dies and joins the rest of the dead universe again.

When this separation breaks down , it dies and joins the rest of the dead universe again .


Unfortunately, the universe would like for life to be done with doing its own thing.

Unfortunately , the universe would like for life to be done with doing its own thing .


For some reason, it's not a fan of exciting things but tries to be as boring as possible.

For some reason , it 's not a fan of exciting things but tries to be as boring as possible .


We call this principle entropy and it's a fundamental rule of our universe.

We call this principle entropy and it 's a fundamental rule of our universe .


It's pretty complicated and counterintuitive so we'll explain it in detail in another video.

It 's pretty complicated and counterintuitive so we 'll explain it in detail in another video .


For now, all you need to know is living things are inherently exciting.

For now , all you need to know is living things are inherently exciting .


A cell is filled up with millions of proteins and millions more simpler molecules like water.

A cell is filled up with millions of proteins and millions more simpler molecules like water .


Thousands of complex self-replicating processes are happening up to hundreds of thousands of times every second.

Thousands of complex self - replicating processes are happening up to hundreds of thousands of times every second .


To stay alive and exciting, it has to constantly work to keep itself from achieving entropy and becoming boring and dead.

To stay alive and exciting , it has to constantly work to keep itself from achieving entropy and becoming boring and dead .


The cell has to maintain the separation from the rest of the universe.

The cell has to maintain the separation from the rest of the universe .


It's doing this, for example, by keeping the concentration of certain molecules different on the inside and the outside by actively pumping out excess molecules.

It 's doing this , for example , by keeping the concentration of certain molecules different on the inside and the outside by actively pumping out excess molecules .


To do stuff like this, a cell needs energy.

To do stuff like this , a cell needs energy .


Energy is the ability of things in the universe to do work, to move or manipulate a thing, to create change.

Energy is the ability of things in the universe to do work , to move or manipulate a thing , to create change .


This ability cannot be created or destroyed, the set amount of energy in the universe will never change.

This ability can not be created or destroyed , the set amount of energy in the universe will never change .


We don't know why, it just is that way.

We do n't know why , it just is that way .


So billions of years ago, one of the most crucial challenges for the first living beings was to get usable energy.

So billions of years ago , one of the most crucial challenges for the first living beings was to get usable energy .


We don't know a lot about the first cells, except that they got their energy from simple chemical reactions.

We do n't know a lot about the first cells , except that they got their energy from simple chemical reactions .


And they found the ultimate energy transfer system, the energetic building block of life, the molecule adenosine triphosphate or ATP.

And they found the ultimate energy transfer system , the energetic building block of life , the molecule adenosine triphosphate or ATP .


This structure makes it uniquely good at accepting and releasing energy.

This structure makes it uniquely good at accepting and releasing energy .


When a cell needs energy, for example to pump out molecules or to repair a broken micromachine, it can break down ATP and use the chemical energy to do work and create change.

When a cell needs energy , for example to pump out molecules or to repair a broken micromachine , it can break down ATP and use the chemical energy to do work and create change .


This is why living beings are able to do stuff.

This is why living beings are able to do stuff .


We don't know when or how exactly the first ATP molecule was made on Earth.

We do n't know when or how exactly the first ATP molecule was made on Earth .


But every living thing we know uses ATP or something very similar to keep its internal machinery running.

But every living thing we know uses ATP or something very similar to keep its internal machinery running .


It's crucial for almost every process plants, fungi, bacteria and animals need to survive.

It 's crucial for almost every process plants , fungi , bacteria and animals need to survive .


While breaking down chemicals for energy is nice and all, early life did miss out on the greatest available source of energy, the sun.

While breaking down chemicals for energy is nice and all , early life did miss out on the greatest available source of energy , the sun .


The sun merges atoms and radiates photons away that carry energy into the solar system.

The sun merges atoms and radiates photons away that carry energy into the solar system .


But this energy is raw and indigestible.

But this energy is raw and indigestible .


It needs to be refined.


After hundreds of millions of years of evolution, finally, a cell figured out how to eat the sun.

After hundreds of millions of years of evolution , finally , a cell figured out how to eat the sun .


It absorbed radiation and converted much of it into neat little chemical packages that it could use to stay alive.

It absorbed radiation and converted much of it into neat little chemical packages that it could use to stay alive .


We call this process photosynthesis.


You take photons that are wobbly with electromagnetic energy and use a part of this energy to merge and combine different molecules together.

You take photons that are wobbly with electromagnetic energy and use a part of this energy to merge and combine different molecules together .


The electromagnetic energy is converted into chemical energy stored in the ATP molecule.

The electromagnetic energy is converted into chemical energy stored in the ATP molecule .


This process became even better as some cells learned to create better chemical packages.

This process became even better as some cells learned to create better chemical packages .


This is so convenient that some cells decided that instead of doing all that pesky photosynthesis work themselves,

This is so convenient that some cells decided that instead of doing all that pesky photosynthesis work themselves ,


they would just swallow other cells that did and take their glucose and ATP.

they would just swallow other cells that did and take their glucose and ATP .


This is widely considered one of the biggest anime betrayals in evolutionary history.

This is widely considered one of the biggest anime betrayals in evolutionary history .


And so things went on.


Living cells could mostly harness energy at their surfaces, which limited their maximum energy production, which limited their evolutionary avenue somewhat.

Living cells could mostly harness energy at their surfaces , which limited their maximum energy production , which limited their evolutionary avenue somewhat .


So time passed.


Some cells made sugar, others ate them.

Some cells made sugar , others ate them .


Evolution did its thing, but overall things stayed pretty much the same for hundreds of millions of years.

Evolution did its thing , but overall things stayed pretty much the same for hundreds of millions of years .


Until one day, a cell ate another and did not kill it.

Until one day , a cell ate another and did not kill it .


Instead, they became one cell.


Nothing had changed that day, but Earth would be different forever.

Nothing had changed that day , but Earth would be different forever .


This cell became the ancestor of all animals on this planet.

This cell became the ancestor of all animals on this planet .


All can trace back their existence to this moment.

All can trace back their existence to this moment .


The merging of two living beings is so important because when those two cells became one, they became way more powerful.

The merging of two living beings is so important because when those two cells became one , they became way more powerful .


The formerly independent cell in the inside could stop trying to survive.

The formerly independent cell in the inside could stop trying to survive .


It could concentrate on one thing, make ATP.

It could concentrate on one thing , make ATP .


It became the powerhouse of the cell, the first mitochondria.

It became the powerhouse of the cell , the first mitochondria .


The host cell's job became to ensure survival in the dangerous world and provide the mitochondria with food.

The host cell 's job became to ensure survival in the dangerous world and provide the mitochondria with food .


Mitochondria basically reverse photosynthesis in a similarly complex process.

Mitochondria basically reverse photosynthesis in a similarly complex process .


They take sugar molecules that we got from eating other living things, combust them with oxygen and precursor molecules to make new, energy-rich ATP molecules.

They take sugar molecules that we got from eating other living things , combust them with oxygen and precursor molecules to make new , energy - rich ATP molecules .


This process works like a tiny furnace and spits out waste products like CO2, water, and a little bit of kinetic energy that you experience as body heat.

This process works like a tiny furnace and spits out waste products like CO2 , water , and a little bit of kinetic energy that you experience as body heat .


This first division of labor meant the new cell had way more energy available than any cell before, which meant more possibilities for evolution to enable more complex cells.

This first division of labor meant the new cell had way more energy available than any cell before , which meant more possibilities for evolution to enable more complex cells .


At some point, these cells began to form small groups or communities, which led to multicellular life and finally, to you.

At some point , these cells began to form small groups or communities , which led to multicellular life and finally , to you .


Today, you are a pile of trillions of cells, each filled with dozens, if not hundreds of little machines that provide you with usable energy to stay alive.

Today , you are a pile of trillions of cells , each filled with dozens , if not hundreds of little machines that provide you with usable energy to stay alive .


If this process is interrupted, even for a few minutes, you die.

If this process is interrupted , even for a few minutes , you die .


But if life is so fragile, wouldn't it be a good idea to store ATP, like we store sugar in our fat cells so we don't die if we stop breathing for a while?

But if life is so fragile , would n't it be a good idea to store ATP , like we store sugar in our fat cells so we do n't die if we stop breathing for a while ?


If life has solved so many problems to make you live today, what's up with the dying quickly thing?

If life has solved so many problems to make you live today , what 's up with the dying quickly thing ?


Even simple bacteria like E. coli make about 50 times their body weight in ATP for every cell division.

Even simple bacteria like E. coli make about 50 times their body weight in ATP for every cell division .


Your trillions of cells need a lot of ATP to keep you around.

Your trillions of cells need a lot of ATP to keep you around .


Every day, your body produces and converts about 90 million, billion, billion molecules of ATP, about your own body weight.

Every day , your body produces and converts about 90 million , billion , billion molecules of ATP , about your own body weight .


You need a whole person's worth of ATP just to make it through a single day.

You need a whole person 's worth of ATP just to make it through a single day .


Even storing enough ATP to last you a few minutes is basically impossible.

Even storing enough ATP to last you a few minutes is basically impossible .


An ATP molecule is really good for shifting energy around quickly, but it's terrible for storage since it has only 1% of a glucose molecule's energy at 3 times its mass.

An ATP molecule is really good for shifting energy around quickly , but it 's terrible for storage since it has only 1 % of a glucose molecule 's energy at 3 times its mass .


So ATP is constantly produced and used up fairly quickly.

So ATP is constantly produced and used up fairly quickly .


This was the short and simplified story of the molecule that allows you to be different from the dead universe and to be the slinky on the escalator.

This was the short and simplified story of the molecule that allows you to be different from the dead universe and to be the slinky on the escalator .


It is a weird story.


There is this molecule you need to survive at all times.

There is this molecule you need to survive at all times .


You need it to keep moving because even a short break brings your slinky to a stop.

You need it to keep moving because even a short break brings your slinky to a stop .


And you need to make it yourself.


It's like driving a car at full speed while producing fuel in the trunk with junk that you pick up from the side of the road.

It 's like driving a car at full speed while producing fuel in the trunk with junk that you pick up from the side of the road .


As far as we know, this all began billions of years ago when tiny parts of the dead universe came together and became something else for a moment.

As far as we know , this all began billions of years ago when tiny parts of the dead universe came together and became something else for a moment .


It could keep itself going.


It could grow.


That moment set the slinky in motion and it's been going ever since.

That moment set the slinky in motion and it 's been going ever since .


At some point you will merge with the rest of the dead universe again.

At some point you will merge with the rest of the dead universe again .


Maybe you'll tell it stories about your adventures.

Maybe you 'll tell it stories about your adventures .


But before you find out, you get to do what life does best.

But before you find out , you get to do what life does best .


If you are currently bored for whatever reason and you want to make your life more interesting, we've got something for you.

If you are currently bored for whatever reason and you want to make your life more interesting , we 've got something for you .


We partnered with Skillshare, an online learning community that offers thousands of classes for all skill levels on tons of creative skills

We partnered with Skillshare , an online learning community that offers thousands of classes for all skill levels on tons of creative skills


Learning something while creating stuff for yourself is pretty fun and fulfilling.

Learning something while creating stuff for yourself is pretty fun and fulfilling .


If you want to learn animation, we made a few Skillshare classes where we explained how we animated scenes from our videos with video lessons and hands-on projects.

If you want to learn animation , we made a few Skillshare classes where we explained how we animated scenes from our videos with video lessons and hands - on projects .


You can get unlimited access to all classes for less than $10 a month with an annual premium membership

You can get unlimited access to all classes for less than $ 10 a month with an annual premium membership


and the first 1000 Kurzgesagt viewers to click the link in the description will get a 2 month free trial.

and the first 1000 Kurzgesagt viewers to click the link in the description will get a 2 month free trial .


we recommend Vector Illustration, Using Creative Constraints to Find Your Style by Rick Berkelsman.

we recommend Vector Illustration , Using Creative Constraints to Find Your Style by Rick Berkelsman .


Just try something to improve your skills and at the same time fight the boredom of being stuck inside.

Just try something to improve your skills and at the same time fight the boredom of being stuck inside .


If you want to get creative with new skills and support Kurzgesagt, give it a try.

If you want to get creative with new skills and support Kurzgesagt , give it a try .


A lot of things can be beautiful.


Beauty is nothing tangible, it only exists in our heads as a pleasant feeling.

Beauty is nothing tangible , it only exists in our heads as a pleasant feeling .


If we have to define it, we perceive something as beautiful if its color, shape, form, or proportion somehow are appealing or delightful to us.

If we have to define it , we perceive something as beautiful if its color , shape , form , or proportion somehow are appealing or delightful to us .


Beauty is a very human experience that's been with us for millions of years.

Beauty is a very human experience that 's been with us for millions of years .


Even our first tools were trimmed to a symmetrical shape.

Even our first tools were trimmed to a symmetrical shape .


Researchers have tried to find practical reasons why our ancestors invested the time to make their tools look nice, but couldn't really identify any.

Researchers have tried to find practical reasons why our ancestors invested the time to make their tools look nice , but could n't really identify any .


It seems that early humans shaped their tools into teardrops simply because they liked them better that way.

It seems that early humans shaped their tools into teardrops simply because they liked them better that way .


Throughout our history, the definition of beauty has changed a lot.

Throughout our history , the definition of beauty has changed a lot .


Ideals have shifted or turned into their opposites.

Ideals have shifted or turned into their opposites .


But beyond individual and contemporary tastes, some things have never really gone out of fashion.

But beyond individual and contemporary tastes , some things have never really gone out of fashion .


The golden ratio, symmetry, or fractal patterns can be found in the art and architecture of cultures from our beginnings to today.

The golden ratio , symmetry , or fractal patterns can be found in the art and architecture of cultures from our beginnings to today .


Humans seem to be in mysterious, inherent agreement about the beauty of certain things.

Humans seem to be in mysterious , inherent agreement about the beauty of certain things .


The patterns that keep coming up are all rooted in nature.

The patterns that keep coming up are all rooted in nature .


They became part of our biology because they helped our ancestors survive.

They became part of our biology because they helped our ancestors survive .


Fractal patterns, for example, occur all over nature, in snail shells, flower heads, waves, or clouds.

Fractal patterns , for example , occur all over nature , in snail shells , flower heads , waves , or clouds .


Identifying and assessing these things and phenomena correctly used to be vital.

Identifying and assessing these things and phenomena correctly used to be vital .


Do those clouds mean rain will come soon?

Do those clouds mean rain will come soon ?


Are these waters safe to swim through?


Can I eat this?


Another pervasive thing is symmetry.


In nature, it means everything is as it should be.

In nature , it means everything is as it should be .


Stems and trees and leaves and blossoms all grow symmetrically.

Stems and trees and leaves and blossoms all grow symmetrically .


A deer with impressive antlers is probably a source of nutritious meat.

A deer with impressive antlers is probably a source of nutritious meat .


A deformed wheat ear may not be safe to eat.

A deformed wheat ear may not be safe to eat .


A symmetrical face is more likely to belong to a healthy and fertile mating partner.

A symmetrical face is more likely to belong to a healthy and fertile mating partner .


Because symmetry is so common in fauna and flora, it's extremely familiar to our brain.

Because symmetry is so common in fauna and flora , it 's extremely familiar to our brain .


It helped our ancestors evaluate their environment more easily and react quickly to danger.

It helped our ancestors evaluate their environment more easily and react quickly to danger .


Things that help us survive activate the reward center in our brain.

Things that help us survive activate the reward center in our brain .


Recognizing signals of safety and nutrition trigger nice feelings in us.

Recognizing signals of safety and nutrition trigger nice feelings in us .


So our sense of beauty probably evolved from pattern recognition.

So our sense of beauty probably evolved from pattern recognition .


But it goes way beyond that now.


Humans seem to have evolved an instinct for beauty that is deeply hardwired into us.

Humans seem to have evolved an instinct for beauty that is deeply hardwired into us .


It remains even after other processes in our brain stop working.

It remains even after other processes in our brain stop working .


Alzheimer's patients were asked to rank the beauty of several paintings.

Alzheimer 's patients were asked to rank the beauty of several paintings .


Then the experiment was repeated two weeks later.

Then the experiment was repeated two weeks later .


The patients had long since forgotten the paintings, but still ranked the beauty of the paintings in the same order.

The patients had long since forgotten the paintings , but still ranked the beauty of the paintings in the same order .


One could argue that this doesn't say much.

One could argue that this does n't say much .


But other research has shown that we have a sort of lowest common denominator when it comes to beauty.

But other research has shown that we have a sort of lowest common denominator when it comes to beauty .


In different experiments, people were asked to distinguish real from fake abstract paintings.

In different experiments , people were asked to distinguish real from fake abstract paintings .


Some were originals by Mondrian and Pollock that were painted based on strict rules like fractal patterns, while the imitations were not.

Some were originals by Mondrian and Pollock that were painted based on strict rules like fractal patterns , while the imitations were not .


The majority picked out the original artworks.

The majority picked out the original artworks .


This worked with paintings from both artists, even though their styles are very different.

This worked with paintings from both artists , even though their styles are very different .


Another experiment also used abstract artworks, but asked people to pick them out among similar paintings made either by children or animals.

Another experiment also used abstract artworks , but asked people to pick them out among similar paintings made either by children or animals .


Again, the test subject pointed out the legit paintings whose patterns were carefully planned and not random.

Again , the test subject pointed out the legit paintings whose patterns were carefully planned and not random .


So while we have a hard time pinning down what beauty is or what it's based on, we somehow recognize it when we see it.

So while we have a hard time pinning down what beauty is or what it 's based on , we somehow recognize it when we see it .


Humans don't navigate nature trying to survive day by day anymore.

Humans do n't navigate nature trying to survive day by day anymore .


We left the natural world behind and created our own.

We left the natural world behind and created our own .


We made the objects that surround us, the things we wear and use and look at.

We made the objects that surround us , the things we wear and use and look at .


As we spread over the planet and our numbers grew, we shaped a completely man-made environment.

As we spread over the planet and our numbers grew , we shaped a completely man - made environment .


In the process of doing so, we often neglected beauty in favor of functionality, cost and efficiency.

In the process of doing so , we often neglected beauty in favor of functionality , cost and efficiency .


We built rows and rows of concrete housing blocks that nobody wants to live in.

We built rows and rows of concrete housing blocks that nobody wants to live in .


We have ugly underground subway stations, shabby public service buildings and sprawling malls.

We have ugly underground subway stations , shabby public service buildings and sprawling malls .


Humans don't like monotony.


Eye-tracking software has shown that people keep focusing on details and ornaments of architecture while brushing quickly over buildings.

Eye - tracking software has shown that people keep focusing on details and ornaments of architecture while brushing quickly over buildings .


Experiments with skin sensors showed that looking at vast dull facades makes us feel bored and uncomfortable.

Experiments with skin sensors showed that looking at vast dull facades makes us feel bored and uncomfortable .


This kind of boredom has been linked to raised heart rates and stress levels.

This kind of boredom has been linked to raised heart rates and stress levels .


And the opposite seems to be true too.


Over the last decades, more and more studies have found that surroundings that are actually aesthetically pleasing to us can improve our well-being, our behavior, cognitive function and mood.

Over the last decades , more and more studies have found that surroundings that are actually aesthetically pleasing to us can improve our well - being , our behavior , cognitive function and mood .


Our bodies and brains react measurably and visibly to everything that surrounds us.

Our bodies and brains react measurably and visibly to everything that surrounds us .


Beauty in particular has such a strong impact on our well-being that making useful things beautiful can actually make them better.

Beauty in particular has such a strong impact on our well - being that making useful things beautiful can actually make them better .


In 2017, a hospital examined recovery factors through observation and interviews with patients.

In 2017 , a hospital examined recovery factors through observation and interviews with patients .


Another study looked at how well patients recovered in a hospital that had two wards.

Another study looked at how well patients recovered in a hospital that had two wards .


To the researchers' surprise, the patients that stayed in the new renovated environment needed less pain medication

To the researchers ' surprise , the patients that stayed in the new renovated environment needed less pain medication


More beautiful surroundings made them feel better physically.

More beautiful surroundings made them feel better physically .


Beauty also has an effect on us on a daily basis.

Beauty also has an effect on us on a daily basis .


It can improve our general happiness.


A study that looked at the main factors influencing the happiness of adults revealed an unexpected result.

A study that looked at the main factors influencing the happiness of adults revealed an unexpected result .


Besides things like good health and a harmonious family life, individual happiness is affected by how beautiful you find the city you live in.

Besides things like good health and a harmonious family life , individual happiness is affected by how beautiful you find the city you live in .


Beauty scored even higher than cleanliness or safety.

Beauty scored even higher than cleanliness or safety .


So, what can we learn from all of this?

So , what can we learn from all of this ?


We know that we humans have been fine-tuned for millions of years to process visual input and assess our surroundings.

We know that we humans have been fine - tuned for millions of years to process visual input and assess our surroundings .


It's just what we're programmed to do.

It 's just what we 're programmed to do .


And we're starting to learn more about how much beauty as a property is really influencing us.

And we 're starting to learn more about how much beauty as a property is really influencing us .


Beauty meets an inherent need for meaningful information.

Beauty meets an inherent need for meaningful information .


Maybe it would be worth giving it more space in this man-made world we have created.

Maybe it would be worth giving it more space in this man - made world we have created .