Time is Ticking: How Close Are We to Global Disaster?
Tue Jan 27 2026
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The Doomsday Clock, a symbol of how near humanity is to self-destruction, has been moved closer to midnight. This clock, started by scientists after World War II, now stands at 85 seconds to midnight, the closest it has ever been. The main reasons for this change include the growing risks from nuclear weapons, climate change, biological threats, and the rapid advancement of technologies like artificial intelligence.
The scientists behind the clock say that the world is not doing enough to tackle these serious problems. They point out that instead of working together, countries are becoming more aggressive and nationalistic. This behavior is making the situation worse, especially with conflicts involving nuclear-armed states. The last major treaty controlling nuclear weapons between the US and Russia is about to expire, which could lead to a new arms race.
Besides nuclear threats, there are also worries about biological dangers, such as the development of synthetic life forms. The lack of global coordination in this area is concerning. Additionally, the spread of false information and conspiracy theories is making it harder to address these threats effectively.
The Doomsday Clock was created by scientists who worked on the Manhattan Project. Initially, it focused only on nuclear threats, but in 2007, it started including the climate crisis as well. The time on the clock is set each year by a group of experts, including Nobel laureates. However, some experts question how useful the clock is, arguing that it combines different types of risks in a way that might not accurately reflect reality.
Despite these criticisms, the clock serves as a reminder of the urgent need for action. It has never reached midnight, and scientists hope it never will. To move the clock back, significant efforts are needed, such as international cooperation and individual actions to combat climate change. Small changes in daily life, like reducing plastic use and conserving water, can also make a difference.
