When we put together the dangers of rapid climate change, the scale of emissions and the lack of consensus over how to solve it, the challenge seems insurmountable.

When we put together the dangers of rapid climate change , the scale of emissions and the lack of consensus over how to solve it , the challenge seems insurmountable .


It can cause decision fatigue and moral licensing where you no longer feel bad about behaving in a counterproductive way.

It can cause decision fatigue and moral licensing where you no longer feel bad about behaving in a counterproductive way .


We have struggled a long time with this, which is why this video took us so long to make.

We have struggled a long time with this , which is why this video took us so long to make .


So what can you actually do?


There are many different takes, and they are passionately discussed.

There are many different takes , and they are passionately discussed .


We don't know who's right, so we can only offer you the Kurzgesagt perspective and opinion.

We do n't know who 's right , so we can only offer you the Kurzgesagt perspective and opinion .


What can you actually do?


We need a different way to think and talk about rapid climate change.

We need a different way to think and talk about rapid climate change .


As discussed in frustrating length, the personal responsibility angle is overplayed.

As discussed in frustrating length , the personal responsibility angle is overplayed .


For systemic changes in technology, politics and the economy of this magnitude, we need to influence the people at the levers.

For systemic changes in technology , politics and the economy of this magnitude , we need to influence the people at the levers .


Politicians need to know and feel strongly that the people care, that their own success depends on tackling rapid climate change.

Politicians need to know and feel strongly that the people care , that their own success depends on tackling rapid climate change .


When governments and local politicians are reluctant to change laws that affect their biggest tax contributors or campaign donors,

When governments and local politicians are reluctant to change laws that affect their biggest tax contributors or campaign donors ,


we need to vote them out and vote in people who respect science.

we need to vote them out and vote in people who respect science .


We need to hold them accountable for implementing the most effective climate change strategies.

We need to hold them accountable for implementing the most effective climate change strategies .


Not waste our time with things like banning plastic straws, but by moving the big levers.

Not waste our time with things like banning plastic straws , but by moving the big levers .


we need politicians to change the laws and incentivize the deployment of existing technologies


There's no reason that the profit interests of industries could not match the need to reduce carbon emissions as much as possible.

There 's no reason that the profit interests of industries could not match the need to reduce carbon emissions as much as possible .


And if they still don't cooperate, harsh punishments and regulation need to force or bankrupt them.

And if they still do n't cooperate , harsh punishments and regulation need to force or bankrupt them .


It's still unrealistic that change of that scope can be forced onto a worldwide economy quickly enough,

It 's still unrealistic that change of that scope can be forced onto a worldwide economy quickly enough ,


because many low-carbon technologies still need a lot of time and research, which means they're expensive.

because many low - carbon technologies still need a lot of time and research , which means they 're expensive .


But more companies will make more efficient carbon capture systems, tasty meat alternatives, better batteries, cement alternatives and so on,

But more companies will make more efficient carbon capture systems , tasty meat alternatives , better batteries , cement alternatives and so on ,


And, if you're affluent enough, you can do your part by investing in these things right now while they're still expensive.

And , if you 're affluent enough , you can do your part by investing in these things right now while they 're still expensive .


These are the mechanisms that will drive the prices down later on.

These are the mechanisms that will drive the prices down later on .


So this is basically what you can do.


Vote at the ballot, vote with your wallet.

Vote at the ballot , vote with your wallet .


There are too many opposing interests and complicated grey zones.

There are too many opposing interests and complicated grey zones .


In the end, if we truly get the systemic change we need, everybody will be unhappy about some aspect of it.

In the end , if we truly get the systemic change we need , everybody will be unhappy about some aspect of it .


Only if we all accept that some solutions will have negative impacts for us can we have an honest conversation and make progress.

Only if we all accept that some solutions will have negative impacts for us can we have an honest conversation and make progress .


Everybody will be a little unhappy, and that's okay.

Everybody will be a little unhappy , and that 's okay .


This is the best you can do.


You can deal with the reality of the situation and promote your priorities through your behaviour and your actions.

You can deal with the reality of the situation and promote your priorities through your behaviour and your actions .


And while you do so, you can eat less meat, fly less or get an electric car.

And while you do so , you can eat less meat , fly less or get an electric car .


but to do your tiny, tiny part for the systemic change we need.

but to do your tiny , tiny part for the systemic change we need .


This video was supported by Gates Notes, the personal blog of Bill Gates, where he writes about global health, climate change and more.

This video was supported by Gates Notes , the personal blog of Bill Gates , where he writes about global health , climate change and more .


Check out GatesNotes.com to learn more about ways the world can work together to reach zero greenhouse gas emissions or use the link below.

Check out GatesNotes.com to learn more about ways the world can work together to reach zero greenhouse gas emissions or use the link below .


And in the spirit of transparency, if you want to learn more about how we handle sponsorships like this one, we also have a Medium article describing how we do it.

And in the spirit of transparency , if you want to learn more about how we handle sponsorships like this one , we also have a Medium article describing how we do it .


Thank you for watching.


One, nuclear energy saves lives.


In 2013, a study conducted by NASA found that nuclear energy has prevented around 1.8 million deaths.

In 2013 , a study conducted by NASA found that nuclear energy has prevented around 1.8 million deaths .


Even if you include the death tolls from Chernobyl and Fukushima, nuclear energy ranks last in death per energy unit produced.

Even if you include the death tolls from Chernobyl and Fukushima , nuclear energy ranks last in death per energy unit produced .


While nuclear waste is really toxic, it's usually stored somewhere.

While nuclear waste is really toxic , it 's usually stored somewhere .


While the toxic byproducts of fossil fuels are pumped into the air we breathe every day.

While the toxic byproducts of fossil fuels are pumped into the air we breathe every day .


So, just by reducing the amount of fossil fuels burned, countless cases of cancer or lung disease and accidents in coal mines have been avoided.

So , just by reducing the amount of fossil fuels burned , countless cases of cancer or lung disease and accidents in coal mines have been avoided .


If we can choose between lots of dangerous stuff being put into a deep hole, and lots and lots and lots of dangerous stuff being pumped into the atmosphere, the former seems more logical.

If we can choose between lots of dangerous stuff being put into a deep hole , and lots and lots and lots of dangerous stuff being pumped into the atmosphere , the former seems more logical .


Nuclear energy feels way more dangerous though.

Nuclear energy feels way more dangerous though .


Single catastrophic events burn into our memory, while coal and oil kill silently.

Single catastrophic events burn into our memory , while coal and oil kill silently .


It's like the death rate of flying versus driving.

It 's like the death rate of flying versus driving .


Even in the best case scenario, it would take at least 40 years to switch to 100% renewable energy.

Even in the best case scenario , it would take at least 40 years to switch to 100 % renewable energy .


So, for as long as we continue using fossil fuels, nuclear energy will save way more lives than it destroys.

So , for as long as we continue using fossil fuels , nuclear energy will save way more lives than it destroys .


Two, nuclear energy reduces CO2 emissions.

Two , nuclear energy reduces CO2 emissions .


Nuclear energy is arguably way less harmful to the environment in terms of climate change than fossil fuels, our main source of energy.

Nuclear energy is arguably way less harmful to the environment in terms of climate change than fossil fuels , our main source of energy .


Since 1976, about 64 gigatons of greenhouse gas emissions have not been pumped out, thanks to nuclear energy.

Since 1976 , about 64 gigatons of greenhouse gas emissions have not been pumped out , thanks to nuclear energy .


And by the mid-21st century, that could amount to an additional 80 to 240 gigatons.

And by the mid-21st century , that could amount to an additional 80 to 240 gigatons .


Humanity's energy consumption is rising steadily.

Humanity 's energy consumption is rising steadily .


According to US government projections, China alone will add the equivalent of a new 600 megawatt coal plant every 10 days for the next 10 years.

According to US government projections , China alone will add the equivalent of a new 600 megawatt coal plant every 10 days for the next 10 years .


China already burns 4 billion tons of coal each year.

China already burns 4 billion tons of coal each year .


Coal is cheap, relatively abundant, and easy to get to.

Coal is cheap , relatively abundant , and easy to get to .


So, it's not likely that humanity will stop using it soon.

So , it 's not likely that humanity will stop using it soon .


Nuclear energy might be the only way of dampening the effects of climate change and preventing a catastrophic man-made global warming.

Nuclear energy might be the only way of dampening the effects of climate change and preventing a catastrophic man - made global warming .


Compared to the other things we do, nuclear energy is relatively clean.

Compared to the other things we do , nuclear energy is relatively clean .


So, even if it is a good idea to quit nuclear energy long-term, it might be a good solution for the next 100 years or so, compared to the alternatives.

So , even if it is a good idea to quit nuclear energy long - term , it might be a good solution for the next 100 years or so , compared to the alternatives .


Maybe technology will solve the problem of nuclear waste and dangerous power plants.

Maybe technology will solve the problem of nuclear waste and dangerous power plants .


The nuclear reactors we've used so far are mostly outdated technology, because nuclear innovation stopped in the 1970s.

The nuclear reactors we 've used so far are mostly outdated technology , because nuclear innovation stopped in the 1970s .


There are models like the thorium reactor that could solve the problem altogether.

There are models like the thorium reactor that could solve the problem altogether .


Thorium is abundant, really hard to turn into nuclear weapons, and up to two orders of magnitude less wasteful than current nuclear reactors.

Thorium is abundant , really hard to turn into nuclear weapons , and up to two orders of magnitude less wasteful than current nuclear reactors .


The waste material might also be only dangerous for a few hundred years, in contrast to a couple of thousand years.

The waste material might also be only dangerous for a few hundred years , in contrast to a couple of thousand years .


One ton of thorium is estimated to provide the same amount of energy as 200 tons of uranium or 3.5 million tons of coal.

One ton of thorium is estimated to provide the same amount of energy as 200 tons of uranium or 3.5 million tons of coal .


So, while we cannot know for sure if alternative nuclear technology will keep its promises, shouldn't we at least do more research before we forgo an opportunity to solve lots of humanity's current problems?

So , while we can not know for sure if alternative nuclear technology will keep its promises , should n't we at least do more research before we forgo an opportunity to solve lots of humanity 's current problems ?


It might not be an easy challenge, but that hasn't stopped us before.

It might not be an easy challenge , but that has n't stopped us before .


So, should we use nuclear energy?


There are risks involved in any great human endeavor, and we have to make an informed decision rather than rely on gut feeling.

There are risks involved in any great human endeavor , and we have to make an informed decision rather than rely on gut feeling .


If you want to hear the other side of the argument, or a short introduction to nuclear energy, click here.

If you want to hear the other side of the argument , or a short introduction to nuclear energy , click here .


Can you trust Kurzgesagt videos?


To answer this question, we'll first explain how we research them, and then talk a bit about past videos and what we want to achieve with the channel.

To answer this question , we 'll first explain how we research them , and then talk a bit about past videos and what we want to achieve with the channel .


Making a Kurzgesagt video always begins with a question or an issue.

Making a Kurzgesagt video always begins with a question or an issue .


For example, after our meat video, many viewers asked about the health effects of meat on humans.

For example , after our meat video , many viewers asked about the health effects of meat on humans .


We had no idea, and were pretty curious too, so we just decided to work on it.

We had no idea , and were pretty curious too , so we just decided to work on it .


The first step is research.


We start by looking for books and scientific papers to get an overview and just read a lot.

We start by looking for books and scientific papers to get an overview and just read a lot .


The plan is to find a story worth telling.

The plan is to find a story worth telling .


Is there something surprising to learn?

Is there something surprising to learn ?


Is there a larger context or a new perspective?

Is there a larger context or a new perspective ?


Or will it be an overview or introduction?

Or will it be an overview or introduction ?


Once we have the first readable version, we reach out to experts or scientists and ask them to fact check and correct us.

Once we have the first readable version , we reach out to experts or scientists and ask them to fact check and correct us .


Soon enough they find a flaw or point us in the direction of contradictory research.

Soon enough they find a flaw or point us in the direction of contradictory research .


At this point, many scripts die.


If our idea does hold up, we continue working on it.

If our idea does hold up , we continue working on it .


This process can take weeks or months.


Our loneliness script, for example, took over a year and a half to finish.

Our loneliness script , for example , took over a year and a half to finish .


The hardest part is being brief while not simplifying too much.

The hardest part is being brief while not simplifying too much .


It's much easier to write a long script than a short one.

It 's much easier to write a long script than a short one .


When we're finally done, we do another round of research and show the script to experts again,

When we 're finally done , we do another round of research and show the script to experts again ,


When we express an opinion, we mark it as such.

When we express an opinion , we mark it as such .


That's not saying that we don't draw conclusions from the research.

That 's not saying that we do n't draw conclusions from the research .


Homeopathy does not work and meat is really bad for the planet.

Homeopathy does not work and meat is really bad for the planet .


Climate change is real, but organic food is not a good way of solving it.

Climate change is real , but organic food is not a good way of solving it .


If the facts clearly support a conclusion, it's okay to present it as such.

If the facts clearly support a conclusion , it 's okay to present it as such .


Of course, we can't always make everybody happy.

Of course , we ca n't always make everybody happy .


People who know a lot about a topic sometimes get annoyed if we don't mention an aspect they think is crucial or when we omit technical terms.

People who know a lot about a topic sometimes get annoyed if we do n't mention an aspect they think is crucial or when we omit technical terms .


This is more or less unsolvable because of the nature of our videos.

This is more or less unsolvable because of the nature of our videos .


Scripts have around 1,300 words, so there's always some degree of simplification.

Scripts have around 1,300 words , so there 's always some degree of simplification .


You will always find a list of our research and sources and further reading material in the video description.

You will always find a list of our research and sources and further reading material in the video description .


Just citing sources doesn't make your work accurate or your research good though,

Just citing sources does n't make your work accurate or your research good though ,


so we encourage you to use our sources document as a starting point to look at the topic yourself and learn more.

so we encourage you to use our sources document as a starting point to look at the topic yourself and learn more .


But it would be dishonest to say that we've always worked this way.

But it would be dishonest to say that we 've always worked this way .


Some older videos don't live up to the standards we set ourselves today.

Some older videos do n't live up to the standards we set ourselves today .


The two that annoy us the most are the refugee and addiction videos.

The two that annoy us the most are the refugee and addiction videos .


In both of them, we didn't try to present a balanced perspective, but instead chose a take and ran with it.

In both of them , we did n't try to present a balanced perspective , but instead chose a take and ran with it .


The refugee video was made with a deep feeling of angry frustration about the world at the high point of the 2015 refugee crisis.

The refugee video was made with a deep feeling of angry frustration about the world at the high point of the 2015 refugee crisis .


The script was written on one Sunday afternoon and illustrated and animated within a week.

The script was written on one Sunday afternoon and illustrated and animated within a week .


It was exhausting, stressful and frustrating.

It was exhausting , stressful and frustrating .


We still believe it was the right thing for European countries to help, but it was absolutely unnecessary to be toxic about it.

We still believe it was the right thing for European countries to help , but it was absolutely unnecessary to be toxic about it .


We insulted people and brushed away their concerns about real and profound challenges.

We insulted people and brushed away their concerns about real and profound challenges .


The video was divisive and emotional at a time when the debate needed a calm and clear overview.

The video was divisive and emotional at a time when the debate needed a calm and clear overview .


The addiction video was based on only one source that has amassed a lot of criticism over the years,

The addiction video was based on only one source that has amassed a lot of criticism over the years ,


and unfortunately we did not reach out to scientists or do extra research on the papers that were the basis for the video's thesis,

and unfortunately we did not reach out to scientists or do extra research on the papers that were the basis for the video 's thesis ,


that addiction is purely psychological and based on the life circumstances of the individual.

that addiction is purely psychological and based on the life circumstances of the individual .


This stance is still held by a number of addiction professionals and we're not saying it's wrong,

This stance is still held by a number of addiction professionals and we 're not saying it 's wrong ,


but a lot of others disagree and it's not correct to present it as the truth.

but a lot of others disagree and it 's not correct to present it as the truth .


Addiction is far from solved and our video should have reflected that instead of taking one side.

Addiction is far from solved and our video should have reflected that instead of taking one side .


We simplified an idea so much that it made a great story, but became distorting.

We simplified an idea so much that it made a great story , but became distorting .


Both videos were made over the span of two months and they're two of our most successful videos to date.

Both videos were made over the span of two months and they 're two of our most successful videos to date .


We had found a formula that really worked, but we never made anything like them again and have been discussing how to deal with them for a long time.

We had found a formula that really worked , but we never made anything like them again and have been discussing how to deal with them for a long time .


It doesn't help that both videos are loved by many people.

It does n't help that both videos are loved by many people .


We want to be proud of our work and these two videos don't make us proud.

We want to be proud of our work and these two videos do n't make us proud .


So today we deleted them.


It won't purge them from the internet, but that's not the goal anyway, feel free to upload them elsewhere.

It wo n't purge them from the internet , but that 's not the goal anyway , feel free to upload them elsewhere .


We're working on a new addiction video that will take a look at the chemical and psychological causes.

We 're working on a new addiction video that will take a look at the chemical and psychological causes .


We'll take our sweet time with it, so please have patience.

We 'll take our sweet time with it , so please have patience .


The refugee video is not up to date anymore, so we will not renew it.

The refugee video is not up to date anymore , so we will not renew it .


We're also going through our older videos to add sources, further reading and comments in the next few months.

We 're also going through our older videos to add sources , further reading and comments in the next few months .


Nowadays, rather than trusting in mainstream institutions, we often look at creators on the internet for reliable information.

Nowadays , rather than trusting in mainstream institutions , we often look at creators on the internet for reliable information .


We rely on the fact that they are careful and rigorous and not led by monetary incentives.

We rely on the fact that they are careful and rigorous and not led by monetary incentives .


And we expect them to acknowledge mistakes in public and work to minimize them.

And we expect them to acknowledge mistakes in public and work to minimize them .


So this is what we're going to do.


Trust is not a thing you earn once and then keep forever, you have to constantly work for it.

Trust is not a thing you earn once and then keep forever , you have to constantly work for it .


So can you trust Kurzgesagt?


You can trust that every video we make is thoroughly researched and approved by different experts.

You can trust that every video we make is thoroughly researched and approved by different experts .


You can trust that we know that we have biases and we try to overcome them.

You can trust that we know that we have biases and we try to overcome them .


We want to move Kurzgesagt further towards the trustworthy end of the spectrum.

We want to move Kurzgesagt further towards the trustworthy end of the spectrum .


The world is too complex for simple answers and we don't want to be the ones giving them.

The world is too complex for simple answers and we do n't want to be the ones giving them .


Making these videos over the last six years has been quite a ride and we're very grateful for it.

Making these videos over the last six years has been quite a ride and we 're very grateful for it .


We hope you'll be with us for the next few years too and join us on our journey to figure out what this universe and life stuff is all about.

We hope you 'll be with us for the next few years too and join us on our journey to figure out what this universe and life stuff is all about .


Thank you for watching.


The desire to be free from the limits of the human experience is as old as our first stories.

The desire to be free from the limits of the human experience is as old as our first stories .


We exist in an endless universe, only bound by the laws of physics, and yet our consciousness is trapped in mortal machines made of meat.

We exist in an endless universe , only bound by the laws of physics , and yet our consciousness is trapped in mortal machines made of meat .


for the first time the concept of leaving our flesh piles behind and uploading our minds into a digital utopia seems possible,

for the first time the concept of leaving our flesh piles behind and uploading our minds into a digital utopia seems possible ,


Mind uploading and digital immortality are some of the core themes of the game Cyberpunk 2077.

Mind uploading and digital immortality are some of the core themes of the game Cyberpunk 2077 .


It plays in a grim dystopian future where humanity has progressed far beyond today's technology and explores what this could mean for humanity.

It plays in a grim dystopian future where humanity has progressed far beyond today 's technology and explores what this could mean for humanity .


About a year ago CD Projekt Red asked us if we would like to make a video about some of these ideas and we were immediately on board.

About a year ago CD Projekt Red asked us if we would like to make a video about some of these ideas and we were immediately on board .


So let's explore this topic together.


Is it possible to upload your mind into a computer?

Is it possible to upload your mind into a computer ?


Well, it's complicated.


Upload what exactly?


Mind is one of those words that are really hard to define.

Mind is one of those words that are really hard to define .


It's thought to be the collective abilities of your consciousness and intelligence, the thing that lets you imagine, recognize, and dream.

It 's thought to be the collective abilities of your consciousness and intelligence , the thing that lets you imagine , recognize , and dream .


Mind uploading is the hypothetical concept of making a copy of this inner world and transferring it into a computer to run a simulation of your consciousness.

Mind uploading is the hypothetical concept of making a copy of this inner world and transferring it into a computer to run a simulation of your consciousness .


But even defining the premise gets really hard, really fast.

But even defining the premise gets really hard , really fast .


The possibility of mind uploading is based on three assumptions.

The possibility of mind uploading is based on three assumptions .


Assumption one, your mind is in your brain's structure, arrangement, and biochemistry.

Assumption one , your mind is in your brain 's structure , arrangement , and biochemistry .


The idea that everything about the mind can be found in the brain is called physicalism and it keeps our discussion within the domain of natural law.

The idea that everything about the mind can be found in the brain is called physicalism and it keeps our discussion within the domain of natural law .


Assumption three, computer software can host your mind, which means the mind is computable.

Assumption three , computer software can host your mind , which means the mind is computable .


There is no physical property in the brain, including consciousness, that cannot be simulated accurately even if it requires a lot of code.

There is no physical property in the brain , including consciousness , that can not be simulated accurately even if it requires a lot of code .


All of these assumptions have been proposed and challenged by scientists and philosophers and they remain the subject of passionate debate.

All of these assumptions have been proposed and challenged by scientists and philosophers and they remain the subject of passionate debate .


With so many fundamental questions still unanswered, it's hard to discuss the topic without annoying someone.

With so many fundamental questions still unanswered , it 's hard to discuss the topic without annoying someone .


Whatever your position, every discussion of mind upload has to begin with the brain.

Whatever your position , every discussion of mind upload has to begin with the brain .


The brain is the most complex biological structure known and deserves its own entire video, so let's just take a brief look at it.

The brain is the most complex biological structure known and deserves its own entire video , so let 's just take a brief look at it .


Around 100 billion neurons are communicating via 1 million billion connections that are sending signals up to 1,000 times each second,

Around 100 billion neurons are communicating via 1 million billion connections that are sending signals up to 1,000 times each second ,


And it's not just neurons, there are billions of supporting and immune cells of various types performing different jobs.

And it 's not just neurons , there are billions of supporting and immune cells of various types performing different jobs .


On a macro level, the brain can be divided into sections with different roles, from breathing and heart rate to coordinating movement and involuntary reflexes.

On a macro level , the brain can be divided into sections with different roles , from breathing and heart rate to coordinating movement and involuntary reflexes .


The most developed parts, the neocortex or the outermost layer of the brain, hold memories, our ability to plan, think and imagine, hope and dream.

The most developed parts , the neocortex or the outermost layer of the brain , hold memories , our ability to plan , think and imagine , hope and dream .


Where exactly the you part of the brain is situated is not entirely clear.

Where exactly the you part of the brain is situated is not entirely clear .


We know that areas like the precuneus cortex have the greatest influence on our consciousness,

We know that areas like the precuneus cortex have the greatest influence on our consciousness ,


but also that several areas can network together to share tasks none of them can do alone.

but also that several areas can network together to share tasks none of them can do alone .


The brain's building blocks are not exactly simple either.

The brain 's building blocks are not exactly simple either .


Neurons are not just wires, they alter and process information.

Neurons are not just wires , they alter and process information .


Synapses, where signals are handed over from one neuron to the next, contain receptors for hundreds of chemical signals, opening them up to outside influence.

Synapses , where signals are handed over from one neuron to the next , contain receptors for hundreds of chemical signals , opening them up to outside influence .


We have a basic understanding of how these work and we can accurately predict their behavior at small scales, but there's a lot more to the brain than just nerve signals.

We have a basic understanding of how these work and we can accurately predict their behavior at small scales , but there 's a lot more to the brain than just nerve signals .


Hormones play a huge role, like serotonin, which affects our mood, or histamine, which helps us learn.

Hormones play a huge role , like serotonin , which affects our mood , or histamine , which helps us learn .


The brain is influenced by our other parts too, from heart nerves to gut bacteria.

The brain is influenced by our other parts too , from heart nerves to gut bacteria .


What seemed like a very complicated system to begin with gets even more complicated the more we learn about it.

What seemed like a very complicated system to begin with gets even more complicated the more we learn about it .


To get this wildly interconnected mess of cells and meat and chemicals into a computer, we need a model that we can simulate in our digital world, some sort of scan.

To get this wildly interconnected mess of cells and meat and chemicals into a computer , we need a model that we can simulate in our digital world , some sort of scan .


Unfortunately, our scanning technology, like fMRI machines, is not nearly good enough to attempt such a thing.

Unfortunately , our scanning technology , like fMRI machines , is not nearly good enough to attempt such a thing .


But there is a different method that seems very promising.

But there is a different method that seems very promising .


In 2019, scientists successfully mapped a cubic millimeter of mouse brain, roughly the size of a big grain of sand.

In 2019 , scientists successfully mapped a cubic millimeter of mouse brain , roughly the size of a big grain of sand .


It contained 100,000 neurons with a billion synapses and four kilometers of nerve fibers.

It contained 100,000 neurons with a billion synapses and four kilometers of nerve fibers .


This grain of brain was cut into 25,000 slices.

This grain of brain was cut into 25,000 slices .


Five electron microscopes ran continuously for five months, collecting more than 100 million images.

Five electron microscopes ran continuously for five months , collecting more than 100 million images .


It took three months to assemble the images into a 3D model.

It took three months to assemble the images into a 3D model .


The completed data set fills up two million gigabytes of cloud storage.

The completed data set fills up two million gigabytes of cloud storage .


To scan a whole human brain, we would have to repeat this effort a million times, which is much easier said than done.

To scan a whole human brain , we would have to repeat this effort a million times , which is much easier said than done .


Even worse, to correctly simulate a brain, we might even have to map out much smaller building blocks to include the billions of underlying proteins

Even worse , to correctly simulate a brain , we might even have to map out much smaller building blocks to include the billions of underlying proteins


While all of these issues are annoying, the real question is how we turn the static blueprint of the brain into an active thing.

While all of these issues are annoying , the real question is how we turn the static blueprint of the brain into an active thing .


Even if we have a scan, down to the level of synapses, we need laws and rules that animate the wiring diagram.

Even if we have a scan , down to the level of synapses , we need laws and rules that animate the wiring diagram .


To endow this static structure with life, update it with the various laws of chemical binding, of electrodynamics, to animate the simulation.

To endow this static structure with life , update it with the various laws of chemical binding , of electrodynamics , to animate the simulation .


So it becomes a dynamic active thing like a brain that exists from one microsecond to the next that could evolve in time, think, see, and act.

So it becomes a dynamic active thing like a brain that exists from one microsecond to the next that could evolve in time , think , see , and act .


The reality is that we just don't know if this is possible to achieve.

The reality is that we just do n't know if this is possible to achieve .


It all hinges on the nature of the problem.

It all hinges on the nature of the problem .


Are the brain and mind just complicated and a lot of work to figure out?

Are the brain and mind just complicated and a lot of work to figure out ?


Or are they complex in a way that we can't solve?

Or are they complex in a way that we ca n't solve ?


In the worst case, consciousness is more than the sum of the parts of the brain in a way that we don't realize yet.

In the worst case , consciousness is more than the sum of the parts of the brain in a way that we do n't realize yet .


Just having a list of the ingredients might not be enough to get a good consciousness cake.

Just having a list of the ingredients might not be enough to get a good consciousness cake .


Right now we have a great starting point with tangible scientific results and an end goal,

Right now we have a great starting point with tangible scientific results and an end goal ,


but the road to true simulation is unclear and requires a lot of innovation and research.

but the road to true simulation is unclear and requires a lot of innovation and research .


Humans have historically been horrible at predicting the pace of progress.

Humans have historically been horrible at predicting the pace of progress .


In the best case, it's just a matter of doing the work and finding the right solutions.

In the best case , it 's just a matter of doing the work and finding the right solutions .


It might not be necessary to simulate every last cell down to the last atom.

It might not be necessary to simulate every last cell down to the last atom .


Instead, it may be possible to simplify elements into probabilistic models that could match the behavior of the brain using a more manageable number of simpler systems.

Instead , it may be possible to simplify elements into probabilistic models that could match the behavior of the brain using a more manageable number of simpler systems .


So we really don't know if we will ever understand our brain and consciousness well enough to upload human minds.

So we really do n't know if we will ever understand our brain and consciousness well enough to upload human minds .


But the science is real and worth pursuing.

But the science is real and worth pursuing .


At the very least, we will just learn a lot about ourselves and develop a bunch of new technologies.

At the very least , we will just learn a lot about ourselves and develop a bunch of new technologies .


If we succeed, this might put mind uploading well within the capabilities of our rapidly progressing computer technology.

If we succeed , this might put mind uploading well within the capabilities of our rapidly progressing computer technology .


The consequences for humanity and our future in this universe are vast, creepy, and amazing.

The consequences for humanity and our future in this universe are vast , creepy , and amazing .


Successful mind uploading is functional immortality.

Successful mind uploading is functional immortality .


Unless damaged or deleted, you will continue to exist as long as a copy is stored somewhere.

Unless damaged or deleted , you will continue to exist as long as a copy is stored somewhere .


Of course, if the scan is corrupted in any of a myriad of ways, your mind might get corrupted too.

Of course , if the scan is corrupted in any of a myriad of ways , your mind might get corrupted too .


You might be in an eternity of pain or paranoia or having an endless psychotic breakdown.

You might be in an eternity of pain or paranoia or having an endless psychotic breakdown .


The question if this digital mind is you opens another whole can of worms.

The question if this digital mind is you opens another whole can of worms .


For now, we'll just assume that your digital mind at least feels like it's you.

For now , we 'll just assume that your digital mind at least feels like it 's you .


How would mind uploading change your outlook on life?

How would mind uploading change your outlook on life ?


Will you feel safer knowing that death is not necessarily the end?

Will you feel safer knowing that death is not necessarily the end ?


Or would you try to be super safe to avoid dying before your mind is uploaded?

Or would you try to be super safe to avoid dying before your mind is uploaded ?


If scanning technology does become advanced enough, your biological and digital versions could coexist.

If scanning technology does become advanced enough , your biological and digital versions could coexist .


You could help each other out by making your biological lifespan more enjoyable and the future of the copy more secure.

You could help each other out by making your biological lifespan more enjoyable and the future of the copy more secure .


Whatever happens, your mind copy will begin a completely new life once it opens their digital eyes for the first time.

Whatever happens , your mind copy will begin a completely new life once it opens their digital eyes for the first time .


Having a functional body is actually quite nice and you're pretty used to it.

Having a functional body is actually quite nice and you 're pretty used to it .


Food, love, pain, and exhaustion, all of these things are parts of us that we must live with.

Food , love , pain , and exhaustion , all of these things are parts of us that we must live with .


But in the end, they are the result of neurons firing in your brain.

But in the end , they are the result of neurons firing in your brain .


So while you could decide to live in a simulated body, it might be optional for a digital mind.

So while you could decide to live in a simulated body , it might be optional for a digital mind .


Falling in love might lose meaning if you can have it at the press of a button.

Falling in love might lose meaning if you can have it at the press of a button .


Instead, you might end up searching for new extraordinary experiences.

Instead , you might end up searching for new extraordinary experiences .


Walk on the surface of the Sun.


Speed up time to skip past a few boring months.

Speed up time to skip past a few boring months .


Experience a simulation of the past.


Your perspectives and priorities will change as you continue to exist in this liberated form.

Your perspectives and priorities will change as you continue to exist in this liberated form .


The longer digital minds exist, eventually they will likely gain greater knowledge of themselves and an ability to change their own contents.

The longer digital minds exist , eventually they will likely gain greater knowledge of themselves and an ability to change their own contents .


This can be as simple as deleting a memory that bugs you.

This can be as simple as deleting a memory that bugs you .


You might change aspects of your personality, like grudges, addictions, or laziness.

You might change aspects of your personality , like grudges , addictions , or laziness .


Without the constraints of biology, your abilities might move up as technology progresses

Without the constraints of biology , your abilities might move up as technology progresses


while your priorities or goals might become more and more foreign to your original brain if it's still alive.

while your priorities or goals might become more and more foreign to your original brain if it 's still alive .


Waking up to the true potential of digital immortality will be gradual.

Waking up to the true potential of digital immortality will be gradual .


You can start projects that would take more than a lifetime to complete.

You can start projects that would take more than a lifetime to complete .


Scientists could accumulate an incredible amount of knowledge, leading to discoveries that could revolutionize the world.

Scientists could accumulate an incredible amount of knowledge , leading to discoveries that could revolutionize the world .


Adventurers could upload themselves onto small spaceships and embark on journeys to the stars, just putting themselves on pause for thousands of years at a time.

Adventurers could upload themselves onto small spaceships and embark on journeys to the stars , just putting themselves on pause for thousands of years at a time .


Although, it's unlikely that every digital mind will work for the benefit of humanity, since our current meat versions don't do that either.

Although , it 's unlikely that every digital mind will work for the benefit of humanity , since our current meat versions do n't do that either .


Some will seek power and influence and will have a literal eternity of trying to create empires.

Some will seek power and influence and will have a literal eternity of trying to create empires .


Others will begin hoarding as many resources for themselves as possible as they compete with other minds trying to do the same.

Others will begin hoarding as many resources for themselves as possible as they compete with other minds trying to do the same .


The longer they live, the less sympathy they may feel for simple meat beings.

The longer they live , the less sympathy they may feel for simple meat beings .


Or imagine immortal cult leaders who propagate lies and invent religions, fine-tuning and perfecting their dogma over hundreds of years.

Or imagine immortal cult leaders who propagate lies and invent religions , fine - tuning and perfecting their dogma over hundreds of years .


Maybe our minds are not made for immortality and digital minds will just become rigid and unproductive and retire after a very long life,

Maybe our minds are not made for immortality and digital minds will just become rigid and unproductive and retire after a very long life ,


It's hard to predict how much good or bad a self-improving mind could do with hundreds or thousands of years of free time.

It 's hard to predict how much good or bad a self - improving mind could do with hundreds or thousands of years of free time .


While Mind Upload with all its wonders and horrors is beyond our current technological capabilities,

While Mind Upload with all its wonders and horrors is beyond our current technological capabilities ,


you can use some of your free time in the present and experience one interpretation of this future right away by hitting the streets of Night City in Cyberpunk 2077.

you can use some of your free time in the present and experience one interpretation of this future right away by hitting the streets of Night City in Cyberpunk 2077 .


Cyberpunk 2077 is made by CD Projekt Red, the studio that brought us the Wisher series and is one of the most eagerly awaited games of the last few years.

Cyberpunk 2077 is made by CD Projekt Red , the studio that brought us the Wisher series and is one of the most eagerly awaited games of the last few years .


You dive into a dark, dystopian future where incredible technology is redefining who and what we are.

You dive into a dark , dystopian future where incredible technology is redefining who and what we are .


You can become part of this stunningly large world with immersive storytelling.

You can become part of this stunningly large world with immersive storytelling .


Here's the thing, we haven't played the game yet but when you see this video we're probably already doing so.

Here 's the thing , we have n't played the game yet but when you see this video we 're probably already doing so .


If the past work of CD Projekt Red is any indication then this will be an amazing game, which is why we did this collaboration and sat on this video for far too long.

If the past work of CD Projekt Red is any indication then this will be an amazing game , which is why we did this collaboration and sat on this video for far too long .


So if it's made you curious, check it out.

So if it 's made you curious , check it out .


If you are like most people, there is a gap between the person you are and the person you wish to be.

If you are like most people , there is a gap between the person you are and the person you wish to be .


There are little things you think you should do and big things you ought to achieve.

There are little things you think you should do and big things you ought to achieve .


But it sometimes feels that to achieve your goals, you have to become a different person.

But it sometimes feels that to achieve your goals , you have to become a different person .


Maybe you've tried your hardest to be like that and it worked for a while.

Maybe you 've tried your hardest to be like that and it worked for a while .


Until you find yourself slipping back into your old ways.

Until you find yourself slipping back into your old ways .


In the end, you always seem to fail and with every failed attempt, you become more and more frustrated and annoyed with yourself.

In the end , you always seem to fail and with every failed attempt , you become more and more frustrated and annoyed with yourself .


If you believe success and hustle internet, it's all your own fault.

If you believe success and hustle internet , it 's all your own fault .


If you don't succeed, you just didn't want it enough and the failure is all you.

If you do n't succeed , you just did n't want it enough and the failure is all you .


But change is actually hard and as with most things in life, understanding why makes things easier.

But change is actually hard and as with most things in life , understanding why makes things easier .


Imagine your brain as a lush and dense jungle.

Imagine your brain as a lush and dense jungle .


Moving through it, say to make a decision to do something, is like moving through an actual jungle.

Moving through it , say to make a decision to do something , is like moving through an actual jungle .


It's hard and it costs energy.


Your brain hates expending energy, so it came up with a trick.

Your brain hates expending energy , so it came up with a trick .


All your actions and behaviors leave paths in the jungle of your brain.

All your actions and behaviors leave paths in the jungle of your brain .


As you start doing something, you trample down some plants and make rough improvised trails through the undergrowth.

As you start doing something , you trample down some plants and make rough improvised trails through the undergrowth .


The more often you do the thing, the more pronounced the trail becomes.

The more often you do the thing , the more pronounced the trail becomes .


Over time, it turns into a path that is easier to tread, so you take it more often and it turns into a street.

Over time , it turns into a path that is easier to tread , so you take it more often and it turns into a street .


As you repeat doing the thing over and over for years, the street turns into a highway.

As you repeat doing the thing over and over for years , the street turns into a highway .


Traversing it becomes effortless, familiar and comfortable.

Traversing it becomes effortless , familiar and comfortable .


The more pronounced your brain highways, the more you get used to their comfort.

The more pronounced your brain highways , the more you get used to their comfort .


So we continue to use them, which means we tend to do what we've always done.

So we continue to use them , which means we tend to do what we 've always done .


This is why change is hard, especially as an adult, when your jungle is crisscrossed by lots of established streets and highways.

This is why change is hard , especially as an adult , when your jungle is crisscrossed by lots of established streets and highways .


To understand how those highways are built, we need to distinguish between two things.

To understand how those highways are built , we need to distinguish between two things .


A routine is a sequence of actions that you carry out the same way every time, because they've worked out well for you.

A routine is a sequence of actions that you carry out the same way every time , because they 've worked out well for you .


For example, you get the same ingredients for your favorite dish and cook them in a certain order because you like the taste of the result.

For example , you get the same ingredients for your favorite dish and cook them in a certain order because you like the taste of the result .


Or before going to bed, you set an alarm at 6.30 because this is when you want to get up.

Or before going to bed , you set an alarm at 6.30 because this is when you want to get up .


Imagine routines as being executed by a wise planner.

Imagine routines as being executed by a wise planner .


It's slow and analytical, responsible for strategizing and mental calculations.

It 's slow and analytical , responsible for strategizing and mental calculations .


The planner is aware of the future and carefully considers what kinds of result you want.

The planner is aware of the future and carefully considers what kinds of result you want .


Based on that, it chooses actions to achieve specific outcomes, even if they are uncomfortable, like taking a shower after getting up.

Based on that , it chooses actions to achieve specific outcomes , even if they are uncomfortable , like taking a shower after getting up .


Routines can eventually turn into habits, which feel much easier because they're basically a sequence of actions carried out without thinking about them.

Routines can eventually turn into habits , which feel much easier because they 're basically a sequence of actions carried out without thinking about them .


You've done them so often before that your brain considers them rewarding and a great response to a situation.

You 've done them so often before that your brain considers them rewarding and a great response to a situation .


So a habit can feel like you're on autopilot.

So a habit can feel like you 're on autopilot .


You don't have to convince yourself to do something that's a habit, you just do it.

You do n't have to convince yourself to do something that 's a habit , you just do it .


The important thing about habits is that they are set in motion by triggers, context cues that can be single things or entire situations

The important thing about habits is that they are set in motion by triggers , context cues that can be single things or entire situations


You already have a lot of triggers in your life, like when you see your phone.

You already have a lot of triggers in your life , like when you see your phone .


You almost always unlock the screen or you reach for the seatbelt when you sit in a car.

You almost always unlock the screen or you reach for the seatbelt when you sit in a car .


Or when you buy your coffee before work, you also get a cookie, even though you aren't actually hungry.

Or when you buy your coffee before work , you also get a cookie , even though you are n't actually hungry .


Habits are executed by an impulsive toddler.

Habits are executed by an impulsive toddler .


It responds to your immediate desires based on what's around you, without considering any longer-term goals.

It responds to your immediate desires based on what 's around you , without considering any longer - term goals .


For the toddler, the future doesn't exist and it hates hard work.

For the toddler , the future does n't exist and it hates hard work .


So when it notices a trigger, it steers you to take this easy road inside your brain that leads to a familiar, rewarding result.

So when it notices a trigger , it steers you to take this easy road inside your brain that leads to a familiar , rewarding result .


If you get coffee, the toddler also wants the cookie just because that's what you do every morning.

If you get coffee , the toddler also wants the cookie just because that 's what you do every morning .


This rewarding feeling is also how most of your bad habits started.

This rewarding feeling is also how most of your bad habits started .


Chocolate is tasty, browsing Reddit is occasionally mildly entertaining.

Chocolate is tasty , browsing Reddit is occasionally mildly entertaining .


This is why you repeat these actions, even if they're bad for you.

This is why you repeat these actions , even if they 're bad for you .


Rewarding feelings associated with an action demand to be repeated and so a bad habit is born.

Rewarding feelings associated with an action demand to be repeated and so a bad habit is born .


While the toddler sounds like a built-in sabotage mechanism, it is as important as the wise planner and actually they work together most of the time.

While the toddler sounds like a built - in sabotage mechanism , it is as important as the wise planner and actually they work together most of the time .


You need your wise planner for thinking big thoughts and parallel parking and doing your taxes.

You need your wise planner for thinking big thoughts and parallel parking and doing your taxes .


But letting your wise planner do everything would cost too much energy.

But letting your wise planner do everything would cost too much energy .


Outsourcing mundane and repetitive tasks to habits managed by the toddler allows your brain to easily manage your daily life


So if we want to change and introduce a new behavior into our lives, we can actually use these energy saving mechanisms to make it easier.

So if we want to change and introduce a new behavior into our lives , we can actually use these energy saving mechanisms to make it easier .


We'll focus on small things, not big ones.

We 'll focus on small things , not big ones .


Improving your life a little is so much better than aiming high and changing nothing.

Improving your life a little is so much better than aiming high and changing nothing .


Especially because small changes can do a lot over months and years.

Especially because small changes can do a lot over months and years .


If you want to make change easier, the best way may not be to force it with willpower, but to convince your brain that it's not that big of a deal.

If you want to make change easier , the best way may not be to force it with willpower , but to convince your brain that it 's not that big of a deal .


You want your wise planner to construct that first trail and then use your toddler to help initiate the action effortlessly.

You want your wise planner to construct that first trail and then use your toddler to help initiate the action effortlessly .


Let's say you want to work out to be fitter, a very common goal.

Let 's say you want to work out to be fitter , a very common goal .


The first thing to do is to break down this pretty vague goal into clear separate actions, because the idea is to make the action itself as easy a threshold as possible.

The first thing to do is to break down this pretty vague goal into clear separate actions , because the idea is to make the action itself as easy a threshold as possible .


For example, a tangible controllable action might be doing 10 squats every morning.

For example , a tangible controllable action might be doing 10 squats every morning .


So you can start by trying to create a routine, but already include clear triggers that the toddler can pick up later on.

So you can start by trying to create a routine , but already include clear triggers that the toddler can pick up later on .


Remember, a trigger is nothing more than a signal that you always associate with the action.

Remember , a trigger is nothing more than a signal that you always associate with the action .


They can be visual pointers like seeing a particular object, like your training outfit.

They can be visual pointers like seeing a particular object , like your training outfit .


Or even better, all of these things combined.

Or even better , all of these things combined .


The important thing is that you always start doing your action in a specific context.

The important thing is that you always start doing your action in a specific context .


This trigger is the start button that will eventually set off the action automatically.

This trigger is the start button that will eventually set off the action automatically .


So to establish a home workout habit with 10 squats to begin with,

So to establish a home workout habit with 10 squats to begin with ,


you could make sure to always do them with your exercise gear on at the same place and time, like in your living room at 8am.

you could make sure to always do them with your exercise gear on at the same place and time , like in your living room at 8 am .


Once you have your trigger and action, all you need to do is repeat them regularly, ideally every day.

Once you have your trigger and action , all you need to do is repeat them regularly , ideally every day .


If you keep going, they will change from a routine to a habit, from a trail to a highway.

If you keep going , they will change from a routine to a habit , from a trail to a highway .


Don't get this wrong, the squats will still take you energy to do.

Do n't get this wrong , the squats will still take you energy to do .


But the decision to do them will feel much less like a chore and more like a regular part of your day.

But the decision to do them will feel much less like a chore and more like a regular part of your day .


While this is simple, it's not easy.


Many things you want to turn into habit don't offer as much instant gratification as wasting time on Reddit.

Many things you want to turn into habit do n't offer as much instant gratification as wasting time on Reddit .


To make your new action easier to repeat and more likely to be picked up by the toddler, try to make it pleasurable.

To make your new action easier to repeat and more likely to be picked up by the toddler , try to make it pleasurable .


You need to figure out what works for you.

You need to figure out what works for you .


In principle, that's it.


How long it takes for your toddler to take over and establish a habit varies widely.

How long it takes for your toddler to take over and establish a habit varies widely .


It depends on the behavior you're trying to get used to, what kind of person you are, your stress levels, and many more things.

It depends on the behavior you 're trying to get used to , what kind of person you are , your stress levels , and many more things .


It takes anything between 15 and 250 days until a new habit is kicked off automatically by its trigger.

It takes anything between 15 and 250 days until a new habit is kicked off automatically by its trigger .


You won't know how long it will take for you, but you will know how long it will take for your toddler.

You wo n't know how long it will take for you , but you will know how long it will take for your toddler .


Starting is the easy part, especially in the first week or two.

Starting is the easy part , especially in the first week or two .


Continuing to do it every day is the hard part, but it does get easier as you keep going.

Continuing to do it every day is the hard part , but it does get easier as you keep going .


There are no silver bullets for change.

There are no silver bullets for change .


But the science of habits is a reminder that it is possible no matter how old or young you are.

But the science of habits is a reminder that it is possible no matter how old or young you are .


Even if you only end up doing a little more good stuff or a few new things, that's still a success.

Even if you only end up doing a little more good stuff or a few new things , that 's still a success .


Being a little bit more healthy or knowledgeable is a million times better than being unhappy about a thing and changing nothing.

Being a little bit more healthy or knowledgeable is a million times better than being unhappy about a thing and changing nothing .


In the end, change is a direction, not a destination.

In the end , change is a direction , not a destination .


So now, hoping we've given you a bit of insight and motivation, here is a thing we made to make this progress easier with design and science.

So now , hoping we 've given you a bit of insight and motivation , here is a thing we made to make this progress easier with design and science .


Please bear in mind, you don't need to buy anything to work on yourself.

Please bear in mind , you do n't need to buy anything to work on yourself .


This is optional.


Having said that, we struggle with change as much as anyone else, so we've created our own habit journal, as much for ourselves as for you.

Having said that , we struggle with change as much as anyone else , so we 've created our own habit journal , as much for ourselves as for you .


Before we printed anything, we tested it on ourselves and got feedback from the Kurzgesagt team and experts.

Before we printed anything , we tested it on ourselves and got feedback from the Kurzgesagt team and experts .


The idea is for you to track your habit progress for your desired behavior.

The idea is for you to track your habit progress for your desired behavior .


There's a tutorial part which guides you through the hardest part of the process step by step.

There 's a tutorial part which guides you through the hardest part of the process step by step .


You'll get helpful pointers, reflect on your progress and how you could make things easier for yourself.

You 'll get helpful pointers , reflect on your progress and how you could make things easier for yourself .


Once you get through the tutorial part, the habit journaling starts, regularly interwoven with examples, science breaks and reflections

Once you get through the tutorial part , the habit journaling starts , regularly interwoven with examples , science breaks and reflections


Like our gratitude journal, it's cloth-bound with an embossed hardcover and printed on high quality paper.

Like our gratitude journal , it 's cloth - bound with an embossed hardcover and printed on high quality paper .


Nice to the touch and with lots of beautiful illustrations, this book is a companion on your personal change journey, however small or big it may be.

Nice to the touch and with lots of beautiful illustrations , this book is a companion on your personal change journey , however small or big it may be .


Getting things from our shop is the best way to support Kurzgesagt and what we try to do here on the channel.

Getting things from our shop is the best way to support Kurzgesagt and what we try to do here on the channel .


Thank you for watching.


These solar flares and coronal mass ejections or CMEs can hit Earth and have serious consequences for humanity.

These solar flares and coronal mass ejections or CMEs can hit Earth and have serious consequences for humanity .


How exactly do they work, how bad could they be, and can we prepare for them?

How exactly do they work , how bad could they be , and can we prepare for them ?


While the Sun seems pretty solid, it's actually like a very hot ocean.

While the Sun seems pretty solid , it 's actually like a very hot ocean .


This plasma is pushed around and shaped by the Sun's magnetic field, similar to how the Sun's gravitational field reaches out to the planets and shapes their orbits.

This plasma is pushed around and shaped by the Sun 's magnetic field , similar to how the Sun 's gravitational field reaches out to the planets and shapes their orbits .


But magnetism is very different from gravity.

But magnetism is very different from gravity .


Magnetism is one part of a dual force electromagnetism.

Magnetism is one part of a dual force electromagnetism .


Electricity creates magnetic fields and magnetic fields create electricity.

Electricity creates magnetic fields and magnetic fields create electricity .


On the Sun, the plasma made of electrically charged protons and electrons creates a magnetic field as they move, and this magnetic field then shapes the flow of particles.

On the Sun , the plasma made of electrically charged protons and electrons creates a magnetic field as they move , and this magnetic field then shapes the flow of particles .


They're stuck in a dynamic feedback loop called a dynamo, which keeps the Sun's magnetic field alive.

They 're stuck in a dynamic feedback loop called a dynamo , which keeps the Sun 's magnetic field alive .


This magnetic field stores enormous amounts of energy and leaks out over the solar system.

This magnetic field stores enormous amounts of energy and leaks out over the solar system .


It carries with it a constant trickle of solar plasma like a light rain, known as the solar wind, creating a sort of space weather.

It carries with it a constant trickle of solar plasma like a light rain , known as the solar wind , creating a sort of space weather .


But it isn't always calm and smooth.


As the Sun's plasma churns and flows around itself, its magnetic field gets all kinked and twisted.

As the Sun 's plasma churns and flows around itself , its magnetic field gets all kinked and twisted .


This creates magnetic knots that build up enormous amounts of energy.

This creates magnetic knots that build up enormous amounts of energy .


When the magnetic knots break, like a tangle of springs exploding outwards, the Sun can vomit plasma and other awful things into the solar system.

When the magnetic knots break , like a tangle of springs exploding outwards , the Sun can vomit plasma and other awful things into the solar system .


These solar storms come in many types, like solar flares, a tidal wave of high-energy radiation.

These solar storms come in many types , like solar flares , a tidal wave of high - energy radiation .


They race through the solar system at the speed of light, sweeping up protons in the solar wind, accelerating them into a high-speed solar proton storm.

They race through the solar system at the speed of light , sweeping up protons in the solar wind , accelerating them into a high - speed solar proton storm .


Then there are coronal mass ejections, which rip millions or billions of tons of plasma from the Sun's atmosphere,

Then there are coronal mass ejections , which rip millions or billions of tons of plasma from the Sun 's atmosphere ,


When these monsters hit us, nothing happens on Earth.

When these monsters hit us , nothing happens on Earth .


While even smaller storms can damage satellites, affect radio communication, or be dangerous to astronauts, for people on the surface, space weather is harmless.

While even smaller storms can damage satellites , affect radio communication , or be dangerous to astronauts , for people on the surface , space weather is harmless .


Earth's atmosphere protects us from the worst effects of a solar flare by absorbing the blast of X-rays high up in the atmosphere, well before it reaches the surface.

Earth 's atmosphere protects us from the worst effects of a solar flare by absorbing the blast of X - rays high up in the atmosphere , well before it reaches the surface .


The electrified plasma from a CME is deflected by the Earth's magnetic field,

The electrified plasma from a CME is deflected by the Earth 's magnetic field ,


As with any sort of weather, most of the time, things are fine.

As with any sort of weather , most of the time , things are fine .


Sometimes there are hurricanes, though, or in the case of the Sun, solar superstorms.

Sometimes there are hurricanes , though , or in the case of the Sun , solar superstorms .


And we know that they happen once or twice every century.

And we know that they happen once or twice every century .


If one were to happen today, we would first detect strong solar flares, a sort of flash before the much more dangerous thunder.

If one were to happen today , we would first detect strong solar flares , a sort of flash before the much more dangerous thunder .


The thunder is a CME, consisting of billions of tons of hot magnetic plasma that crosses the 150 million kilometers between the Sun and Earth in less than a day.

The thunder is a CME , consisting of billions of tons of hot magnetic plasma that crosses the 150 million kilometers between the Sun and Earth in less than a day .


When it arrives, it causes a shock wave that violently compresses the Earth's magnetic field and transfers energy into the magnetosphere.

When it arrives , it causes a shock wave that violently compresses the Earth 's magnetic field and transfers energy into the magnetosphere .


But it can get worse.


If the magnetic field of the CME is aligned to Earth's in just the right way, the two magnetic fields merge.

If the magnetic field of the CME is aligned to Earth 's in just the right way , the two magnetic fields merge .


As the magnetic cloud passes over Earth, it stretches the Earth's field into a long tail.

As the magnetic cloud passes over Earth , it stretches the Earth 's field into a long tail .


Eventually, the energy stored in the tail becomes too much to contain.

Eventually , the energy stored in the tail becomes too much to contain .


It snaps and explosively releases its energy towards Earth.

It snaps and explosively releases its energy towards Earth .


A geomagnetic storm has begun.


A few hundred years ago, nobody would have cared.

A few hundred years ago , nobody would have cared .


This storm gushing over the Earth is not relevant for machines made out of meat and bones.

This storm gushing over the Earth is not relevant for machines made out of meat and bones .


But it's very relevant for machines made out of metal and wire.

But it 's very relevant for machines made out of metal and wire .


Remember the dynamo?


Magnetism creates electric currents.


The Earth in the 21st century is covered in millions of kilometers of wires transporting electricity and a complex grid of machines like transformers that make this transfer possible.

The Earth in the 21st century is covered in millions of kilometers of wires transporting electricity and a complex grid of machines like transformers that make this transfer possible .


A CME's energy can induce currents in our power grid that can either completely shut it down, or worse, destroy the transformer stations that keep our grid running.

A CME 's energy can induce currents in our power grid that can either completely shut it down , or worse , destroy the transformer stations that keep our grid running .


This has happened already, like when the Quebec power grid failed after a strong solar storm in 1989.

This has happened already , like when the Quebec power grid failed after a strong solar storm in 1989 .


But in general, our engineers know how to deal with these storms, and so we usually don't even notice.

But in general , our engineers know how to deal with these storms , and so we usually do n't even notice .


The last time a solar hurricane washed over Earth was in 1859.

The last time a solar hurricane washed over Earth was in 1859 .


Massive auroras occurred as far south as the Caribbean.

Massive auroras occurred as far south as the Caribbean .


In some places, they were so bright that people got up thinking the sun was rising.

In some places , they were so bright that people got up thinking the sun was rising .


Luckily, we only had one sort of modern technology, telegraph systems.

Luckily , we only had one sort of modern technology , telegraph systems .


They failed all over the world, shocking their operators and chucking out sparks.

They failed all over the world , shocking their operators and chucking out sparks .


Today, we have a tad more technology, and our luck may run out soon.

Today , we have a tad more technology , and our luck may run out soon .


Another bad solar storm is bound to happen eventually.

Another bad solar storm is bound to happen eventually .


A storm as strong as the Carrington event missed Earth only by a small margin in 2012.

A storm as strong as the Carrington event missed Earth only by a small margin in 2012 .


Studies projected that it would have inflicted serious damage to electronic systems globally, costing up to 2.6 trillion dollars to the US alone.

Studies projected that it would have inflicted serious damage to electronic systems globally , costing up to 2.6 trillion dollars to the US alone .


The time to replace all the damaged systems was estimated at between 4 and 10 years.

The time to replace all the damaged systems was estimated at between 4 and 10 years .


It's hard to say how bad it could have been.

It 's hard to say how bad it could have been .


Experts disagreed.


Some assumed there would just be temporary blackouts, but others worried it could be much worse.

Some assumed there would just be temporary blackouts , but others worried it could be much worse .


We won't know for sure until a big solar hurricane hits us.

We wo n't know for sure until a big solar hurricane hits us .


The probability of such an event is estimated to be 12% per decade.

The probability of such an event is estimated to be 12 % per decade .


That's about a 50-50 chance of at least one in the next 50 years.

That 's about a 50 - 50 chance of at least one in the next 50 years .


And there is more unsettling news.


A 2019 paper found that even calm stars like our Sun can create superflares every few thousand years.

A 2019 paper found that even calm stars like our Sun can create superflares every few thousand years .


If such a storm hits us unprepared, the consequences could be catastrophic.

If such a storm hits us unprepared , the consequences could be catastrophic .


It's hard to overstate how much we depend on electricity.

It 's hard to overstate how much we depend on electricity .


It's not just the lights at home.


It means no computers, no communication, no navigation.

It means no computers , no communication , no navigation .


A sustained power outage might lead to a breakdown of the supply chain.

A sustained power outage might lead to a breakdown of the supply chain .


Supermarkets not being refilled while food rots in the fields.

Supermarkets not being refilled while food rots in the fields .


The lack of power might make it extremely hard to reboot our broken power grid,

The lack of power might make it extremely hard to reboot our broken power grid ,


Scientists observing the Sun have a few hours up to a few days to see a CME coming.

Scientists observing the Sun have a few hours up to a few days to see a CME coming .


And the engineers working the systems that keep the world running are well aware of the risks posed by solar storms.

And the engineers working the systems that keep the world running are well aware of the risks posed by solar storms .


Transformers and substations can be taken offline.

Transformers and substations can be taken offline .


Engineers can open up extra lines to dissipate the extra power.

Engineers can open up extra lines to dissipate the extra power .


And with investment and upgrades cheap compared to those other natural disasters require, we could protect the world's electric grid against even the nastiest of storms.

And with investment and upgrades cheap compared to those other natural disasters require , we could protect the world 's electric grid against even the nastiest of storms .


But we do need to prepare.


While the risk is manageable, it is real.

While the risk is manageable , it is real .


For while our Sun bathes us in warm and pleasant light, one day it might send a monster our way that we better be ready for.

For while our Sun bathes us in warm and pleasant light , one day it might send a monster our way that we better be ready for .


This video was sponsored by you.


Kurzgesagt videos are only possible thanks to your direct support.

Kurzgesagt videos are only possible thanks to your direct support .


For example, if you want to stare at our smooth and round Sun for a little longer, we've made two minimal infographic posters.

For example , if you want to stare at our smooth and round Sun for a little longer , we 've made two minimal infographic posters .


Both should make you feel sufficiently tiny and help you appreciate your existence a bit more.

Both should make you feel sufficiently tiny and help you appreciate your existence a bit more .


But wait, there's more.


We have a bunch of new stuff, from the long requested bacteriophage infographic poster to a new optimistic nihilism poster that lets you enjoy some existential dread in style.

We have a bunch of new stuff , from the long requested bacteriophage infographic poster to a new optimistic nihilism poster that lets you enjoy some existential dread in style .


Or join us in our ant obsession and get the new Ant Explorer notebook with beautiful infographics and facts about ants and gold lettering on the cover.

Or join us in our ant obsession and get the new Ant Explorer notebook with beautiful infographics and facts about ants and gold lettering on the cover .


If you'd rather update your wardrobe, have a look at our beanies or t-shirts.

If you 'd rather update your wardrobe , have a look at our beanies or t - shirts .


We put a lot of love and care into developing our products and only make stuff we want to have ourselves.

We put a lot of love and care into developing our products and only make stuff we want to have ourselves .


If you want to support Kurzgesagt, getting some merch is the best way to do it while receiving something beautiful in return.

If you want to support Kurzgesagt , getting some merch is the best way to do it while receiving something beautiful in return .


Thank you for your support and thank you for watching.

Thank you for your support and thank you for watching .


Electricity is all around us all the time.

Electricity is all around us all the time .


It makes our lives easier, safer, more fun, and most of us never think about it.

It makes our lives easier , safer , more fun , and most of us never think about it .


But is there such a thing as too much electricity?

But is there such a thing as too much electricity ?


Could the thing that is the foundation of the modern world slowly be killing us?

Could the thing that is the foundation of the modern world slowly be killing us ?


Before we dive deeper, let's try to understand what electricity is and how it affects us.

Before we dive deeper , let 's try to understand what electricity is and how it affects us .


Electricity is the movement of an electric charge.

Electricity is the movement of an electric charge .


This movement generates electric and magnetic fields that spread out through space and carry energy.

This movement generates electric and magnetic fields that spread out through space and carry energy .


We call this phenomenon electromagnetic radiation.

We call this phenomenon electromagnetic radiation .


Radiation is a word that makes people very nervous, but to radiate just means giving off.

Radiation is a word that makes people very nervous , but to radiate just means giving off .


Different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum correspond to different types of radiation, and many of them are perfectly harmless.

Different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum correspond to different types of radiation , and many of them are perfectly harmless .


Some of them can be dangerous, though.

Some of them can be dangerous , though .


This is what many people have in mind when they hear the term radiation.

This is what many people have in mind when they hear the term radiation .


The rest of the spectrum covers a large range of longer waves, from visible light, infrared, microwaves, to radio waves.

The rest of the spectrum covers a large range of longer waves , from visible light , infrared , microwaves , to radio waves .


This is the kind of radiation that's emitted by all sorts of human technology.

This is the kind of radiation that 's emitted by all sorts of human technology .


This radiation doesn't disrupt molecules in our body.

This radiation does n't disrupt molecules in our body .


However, some kinds of radiation can stimulate muscles and nerves, and can also make the hair on your body vibrate,

However , some kinds of radiation can stimulate muscles and nerves , and can also make the hair on your body vibrate ,


Other kinds are useful for making dinner.

Other kinds are useful for making dinner .


Microwaves push the water molecules in your food around, which warms it up.

Microwaves push the water molecules in your food around , which warms it up .


This happens to us all the time.


For example, the pleasant warmth you feel at the beach is your skin heating up from exposure to electromagnetic infrared radiation from the sun.

For example , the pleasant warmth you feel at the beach is your skin heating up from exposure to electromagnetic infrared radiation from the sun .


We are surrounded by natural and generally harmless sources of electromagnetic radiation all the time, and always have been.

We are surrounded by natural and generally harmless sources of electromagnetic radiation all the time , and always have been .


But since the Industrial Revolution, we have added a lot of it to our immediate environment.

But since the Industrial Revolution , we have added a lot of it to our immediate environment .


The question of whether this is actually dangerous first got public attention when a 1979 study linked leukemia to living near power lines.

The question of whether this is actually dangerous first got public attention when a 1979 study linked leukemia to living near power lines .


This particular study was quickly discredited, though.

This particular study was quickly discredited , though .


The connection could not be explained, and no direct causal link was confirmed.

The connection could not be explained , and no direct causal link was confirmed .


But once this had been proposed, the idea persisted, and the thousands of studies about possible dangers illustrate that it's still seen as a very real threat.

But once this had been proposed , the idea persisted , and the thousands of studies about possible dangers illustrate that it 's still seen as a very real threat .


A lot of people claim to be sensitive to the radiation coming from our appliances and cell phones.

A lot of people claim to be sensitive to the radiation coming from our appliances and cell phones .


They report symptoms like headaches, nausea, skin reactions, burning eyes, or exhaustion.

They report symptoms like headaches , nausea , skin reactions , burning eyes , or exhaustion .


But those are just effects reported on a day-to-day basis.

But those are just effects reported on a day - to - day basis .


A few studies have found much more unsettling results,

A few studies have found much more unsettling results ,


The question that science is trying to answer is not so much about the acute effects of irradiation.

The question that science is trying to answer is not so much about the acute effects of irradiation .


We know, for example, that x-rays cause immediate damage to the DNA in your cells, but that the same doesn't happen with radio waves.

We know , for example , that x - rays cause immediate damage to the DNA in your cells , but that the same does n't happen with radio waves .


Answering this question was much harder than we first thought.

Answering this question was much harder than we first thought .


There are thousands of primary sources, reports and statements by an onslaught of different organizations.

There are thousands of primary sources , reports and statements by an onslaught of different organizations .


So we read a lot for this video.


You can take a look at our research in the video description.

You can take a look at our research in the video description .


What we found is that this debate is a good example of how science should be communicated and how it shouldn't.

What we found is that this debate is a good example of how science should be communicated and how it should n't .


Many of the much-cited studies that spread panic about electromagnetic radiation are highly controversial.

Many of the much - cited studies that spread panic about electromagnetic radiation are highly controversial .


What this means is, for example, asking brain tumor patients how much they think they used their phone in the last few years.

What this means is , for example , asking brain tumor patients how much they think they used their phone in the last few years .


The problem is that people are unreliable.

The problem is that people are unreliable .


We tend to misremember things or can be influenced easily.

We tend to misremember things or can be influenced easily .


On top of this, studies or media reports may be cherry-picking the findings that best suit their opinion or make for the most exciting headline.

On top of this , studies or media reports may be cherry - picking the findings that best suit their opinion or make for the most exciting headline .


The results seemed to show a connection, but for some reason only in male rats and none at all in mice.

The results seemed to show a connection , but for some reason only in male rats and none at all in mice .


But it was reported as if this study did prove that mobile phone radiation causes cancer.

But it was reported as if this study did prove that mobile phone radiation causes cancer .


Unfortunately, this is the case for studies with both positive and negative findings on the issue.

Unfortunately , this is the case for studies with both positive and negative findings on the issue .


Another aspect is that the WHO did officially classify radiofrequency fields as possibly carcinogenic.

Another aspect is that the WHO did officially classify radiofrequency fields as possibly carcinogenic .


But what this actually means is that there are some hints that they might cause cancer, but we can't prove it and that we will keep an eye out.

But what this actually means is that there are some hints that they might cause cancer , but we ca n't prove it and that we will keep an eye out .


So, if we zoom out a bit, what's the big picture?

So , if we zoom out a bit , what 's the big picture ?


On the whole, there was no consistent evidence in human studies that electromagnetic radiation below exposure value limits causes health problems.

On the whole , there was no consistent evidence in human studies that electromagnetic radiation below exposure value limits causes health problems .


There are some statistical associations, but they're mostly weak and inconsistent.

There are some statistical associations , but they 're mostly weak and inconsistent .


If there were any definite cause-effect relations, we would know by now because of all the data we have.

If there were any definite cause - effect relations , we would know by now because of all the data we have .


So, based on the current state of science, should you worry about the radiation from your laptop or cell phone or TV?

So , based on the current state of science , should you worry about the radiation from your laptop or cell phone or TV ?


The answer is no, you shouldn't.


Research showed they could be experiencing what's known as the Nocebo effect.

Research showed they could be experiencing what 's known as the Nocebo effect .


If you have a headache and happen to start feeling better right when you switch off your laptop, you might see a connection between those two things.

If you have a headache and happen to start feeling better right when you switch off your laptop , you might see a connection between those two things .


Once you get this suspicion, the idea alone that weak radiation might harm you could be the very thing harming you.

Once you get this suspicion , the idea alone that weak radiation might harm you could be the very thing harming you .


It's easy to belittle these people.


Most of them feel they're not being taken seriously, which makes the situation even worse for them.

Most of them feel they 're not being taken seriously , which makes the situation even worse for them .


They should get support, but it's important to be aware that so far we have no robust evidence that electricity below safety limits has any negative effect on humans.

They should get support , but it 's important to be aware that so far we have no robust evidence that electricity below safety limits has any negative effect on humans .


In the attention economy we live in, talking about unproven dangers can make us neglect things that we know for sure are bad for us.

In the attention economy we live in , talking about unproven dangers can make us neglect things that we know for sure are bad for us .


Outdoor air pollution is linked to 4.2 million premature deaths each year and is definitely something we could have a real impact on today.

Outdoor air pollution is linked to 4.2 million premature deaths each year and is definitely something we could have a real impact on today .


Still, to make people feel safe and just to make sure, there are several long-term studies ongoing already.

Still , to make people feel safe and just to make sure , there are several long - term studies ongoing already .


But while we wait for the conclusion of these long-term studies, there are a lot more pressing problems to focus on.

But while we wait for the conclusion of these long - term studies , there are a lot more pressing problems to focus on .


Imagine if you could gather the energy from every star within a hundred million light years, from thousands of galaxies, each with billions of stars.

Imagine if you could gather the energy from every star within a hundred million light years , from thousands of galaxies , each with billions of stars .


Imagine you could take this kind of power and use it to fire the biggest superweapon in the universe.

Imagine you could take this kind of power and use it to fire the biggest superweapon in the universe .


Imagine the damage you could do.


It turns out, you don't need to imagine it, these exist, and they're called gamma-ray bursts.

It turns out , you do n't need to imagine it , these exist , and they 're called gamma - ray bursts .


But what are these cosmic snipers?


And what happens if one takes a shot at Earth?

And what happens if one takes a shot at Earth ?


To understand gamma-ray bursts, we first have to understand gamma rays.

To understand gamma - ray bursts , we first have to understand gamma rays .


Gamma rays are electromagnetic radiation, waves which carry energy just like visible light.

Gamma rays are electromagnetic radiation , waves which carry energy just like visible light .


Visible light is a tiny part of the electromagnetic spectrum.

Visible light is a tiny part of the electromagnetic spectrum .


It's the part your eyes can see.


At lower energies, there are radio waves, microwaves, and infrared.

At lower energies , there are radio waves , microwaves , and infrared .


Gamma rays are incredibly powerful.


A single gamma-ray photon is more energetic than a million visible photons combined.

A single gamma - ray photon is more energetic than a million visible photons combined .


Their high energy makes gamma rays a form of ionizing radiation.

Their high energy makes gamma rays a form of ionizing radiation .


This makes them dangerous to you and me.

This makes them dangerous to you and me .


Ionizing radiation disrupts the delicate biochemical machinery that keeps us alive, like a 9mm bullet through a clock.

Ionizing radiation disrupts the delicate biochemical machinery that keeps us alive , like a 9 mm bullet through a clock .


Fortunately, on Earth, the ozone layer blocks gamma rays, filtering them out before they can harm us.

Fortunately , on Earth , the ozone layer blocks gamma rays , filtering them out before they can harm us .


But if the atmosphere blocks gamma rays from space, how were gamma-ray bursts, or GRBs, from space ever discovered?

But if the atmosphere blocks gamma rays from space , how were gamma - ray bursts , or GRBs , from space ever discovered ?


During the Cold War, the USA sent up spy satellites which could detect gamma rays from Soviet nuclear tests in space.

During the Cold War , the USA sent up spy satellites which could detect gamma rays from Soviet nuclear tests in space .


They didn't see any bombs, but they did observe faint bursts coming from space, lasting only a few seconds.

They did n't see any bombs , but they did observe faint bursts coming from space , lasting only a few seconds .


To date, this may be the only major scientific discovery made by spy satellites, that we know about anyway.

To date , this may be the only major scientific discovery made by spy satellites , that we know about anyway .


Astronomers use telescopes that see different kinds of light to make their discoveries.

Astronomers use telescopes that see different kinds of light to make their discoveries .


And these spy satellites gave them a new pair of eyes.

And these spy satellites gave them a new pair of eyes .


They were a mystery for 30 years, but eventually we discovered the source of a GRB, a galaxy 6 billion light-years away.

They were a mystery for 30 years , but eventually we discovered the source of a GRB , a galaxy 6 billion light - years away .


If a GRB can be seen from such a distance, then it must be incredibly energetic, releasing more energy in a second than the Sun will in its entire 10 billion year lifetime.

If a GRB can be seen from such a distance , then it must be incredibly energetic , releasing more energy in a second than the Sun will in its entire 10 billion year lifetime .


So, where do they come from?


GRBs accompany some of the most violent, cataclysmic deaths in the universe, and the birth of black holes.

GRBs accompany some of the most violent , cataclysmic deaths in the universe , and the birth of black holes .


There are two types of gamma-ray bursts, short and long, and each has their own source.

There are two types of gamma - ray bursts , short and long , and each has their own source .


Long GRBs last about a minute, and scientists think they are produced by supernova, when the core of a massive star collapses to become a black hole.

Long GRBs last about a minute , and scientists think they are produced by supernova , when the core of a massive star collapses to become a black hole .


Short GRBs last a second, and are produced when two neutron stars in a binary merge.

Short GRBs last a second , and are produced when two neutron stars in a binary merge .


Over millions of years, their orbits decay by emitting gravitational waves.

Over millions of years , their orbits decay by emitting gravitational waves .