A prominent philosopher has issued a stark warning about the long-term effects of former President Donald Trump’s administration. In a new essay published on his Substack platform, titled “RealTime Technopocalypse,” Émile P. Torres argues that the world is facing an alarming array of challenges that could push the Doomsday Clock closer to midnight. The clock, which symbolizes the risk of nuclear catastrophe and other global threats, currently stands at 89 seconds to midnight, the closest it has ever been since its inception in 1947.
According to Torres, Trump’s decisions have notably contributed to this precarious situation. The philosopher specifically cites Trump’s withdrawal from global climate agreements and the destabilization of international relations, exemplified by actions such as the alleged kidnapping of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. Torres states, “My guess is that the Bulletin will only move the minute hand forward by one second. However, I also wouldn’t be surprised if they chose to push it several seconds closer to midnight.”
The Bulletin of Atomic Scientists, which manages the Doomsday Clock, has indicated that the current state of global affairs is more precarious than during the height of the Cold War. Torres emphasizes that the world now confronts a “rapidly growing multiplicity of unprecedented global threats” and a deteriorating international security environment.
In his essay, Torres goes beyond immediate concerns, suggesting that the repercussions of Trump’s presidency will be felt long after he leaves office. He warns, “I suspect that this is the least crazy the world will be for the rest of our lives, if only because of climate change and all the disastrous sequelae that comes with it.” His closing remarks urge readers to prepare for increasingly turbulent times: “So, buckle up! Things are going to get even bumpier.”
This analysis reflects deep-seated anxieties regarding global stability and climate action, as thinkers like Torres grapple with the potential legacy of controversial political figures. The implications of these predictions resonate not just with policymakers but also with citizens concerned about the future of international relations and environmental sustainability.
For those interested in exploring Torres’ full argument, the complete essay is available on his Substack page.
