How to Live a Good Life — on Earth and in Space | TED Intersections

The discussion explores concepts of the "common good" and "human thriving," contrasting traditional views with more aspirational ones. The speaker, a space fan, highlights how ambitious space goals like moon missions can drive innovation that benefits Earth. Philosophers like Aristotle are cited, suggesting the common good is a goal to move towards, not just a compromise of existing beliefs. This is paralleled with the concept of a "space commons," which needs defined norms and shared aspirations for humanity as an interplanetary species. The conversation then shifts to what humans owe each other, rejecting Hobbes' view of inherent base instincts. Instead, the ideal is to owe each other our "highest version of ourselves." Philosopher Iris Murdoch suggests we owe others a willingness to "look at them again," challenging our initial assumptions and stereotypes. This involves consciously setting aside first impressions to truly see the person. Designing a better world starts with a fundamental rule. From a Catholic and Christian perspective, the rule is to "love your neighbor as yourself." The speaker suggests not revising this rule but enforcing it more rigorously. In the context of confined space environments, the "golden rule"—treat others as you'd like to be treated—is proposed as a crucial principle. This rule is particularly relevant in small, isolated groups where actions have immediate consequences. A hope for the next ten years is for more people to experience the "overview effect" through democratized access to space, fostering emotional and perspective shifts by seeing Earth from orbit. Another hope is the pragmatic use of AI to help people realize what it means to be genuinely human, counteracting dehumanizing aspects of current systems and allowing human capabilities to be central. The biggest barrier to human thriving is identified as "inattention." Humans require significant effort and attention from themselves and others to develop their potential. Distraction prevents focus on positive plans. This is echoed by the idea that humans are "high-intensity creatures" needing explicit care and development. The role of space exploration is questioned amidst Earthly problems like poverty and climate change. However, space can benefit Earth through scientific advancements, such as understanding how biology differs in orbit, potentially leading to breakthroughs in cancer or Alzheimer's treatments. Ambitious space goals can also force problem-solving that has terrestrial applications. Systems influencing good in each other should assume good intentions. A proposed system is national service, where young people contribute a year to community or military service, fostering understanding and unity across diverse groups. Institutions like education, religious organizations, and media are crucial for character formation and need strengthening. A renaissance of hope in these institutions and in bringing people together is desired, recognizing humans as social animals.