Who Sets the Doomsday Clock?

This article delves into the workings of the Doomsday Clock, a symbolic representation of humanity's proximity to self-annihilation, set annually by the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists. The clock, established in 1947, reflects the collective analysis of a diverse board of scientists and policy experts on global threats such as nuclear weapons, climate change, and disruptive technologies. The article explores the rigorous process behind setting the clock's time, the diverse backgrounds and perspectives of the board members, and the challenges they face in communicating the urgency of these threats to the world. It also touches on the philosophical and ethical dilemmas inherent in such a role, the impact of recent global events on the board's deliberations, and the broader implications of their work for global security and survival.