[Article] “A framework for comparing global problems in terms of expected impact” by Robert Wiblin

There are a lot of problems in the world. We show you a way to figure out which are best to work on.

Narrated by AI.

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Outline:

(02:02) Introducing how we define the factors

(03:42) Defining a problem carefully

(04:55) Creating a (logarithmic) scale

(06:24) How to assess scale

(06:27) Definition

(08:25) How to assess it

(11:27) How to assess how neglected a problem is

(11:32) Definition

(11:41) Why is it important?

(13:53) How to assess it

(14:17) A challenge - direct vs. indirect & future effort

(16:06) More tips on how to assess

(17:56) How to assess how solvable a problem is

(18:01) Definition

(18:10) Why is it important?

(18:59) How to assess it

(20:18) Challenges in assessment

(21:51) What do the summed scores mean?

(22:31) How to assess personal fit

(23:00) Definition

(23:10) How can it be assessed?

(25:00) Other factors for comparing career opportunities

(25:30) How should we interpret the results?

(26:59) How does this approach compare with ordinary cost-effectiveness analysis?

(29:00) Advantages and disadvantages of quantitative problem prioritisation

(30:32) How to factor in coordination?

(31:28) Conclusion

(31:54) Want to help solve a pressing problem?

(32:20) Further reading

(32:26) Read next

The original text contained 2 footnotes which were omitted from this narration.

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First published:
April 1st, 2016

Last updated:
October 14th, 2019

Source:
https://80000hours.org/articles/problem-framework

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Narrated by TYPE III AUDIO.

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