The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists announced the decision to set the Doomsday Clock at 85 seconds to midnight. The symbolic clock, adjusted 27 times since 1947, now points to the most critical point yet reached, driven by growing global risks of nuclear war, climate change, artificial intelligence, and disinformation.
Daniel Holz, a University of Chicago physics professor and chair of the Bulletin's Science and Security Board, emphasizes that the Doomsday Clock is not just an alarm but also a symbol carrying hope. Holz notes that just as the clock was turned back in the past, steps in this direction can be taken in the future as well.
The symbolic clock aims to raise awareness of global threats and promote risk reduction through international cooperation.