> it's more like a modern scam religion to distract from actual problems. This is more or less how I feel. I’m sure some (most?) proponents of longtermism genu

> it's more like a modern scam religion to distract from actual problems. This is more or less how I feel. I’m sure some (most?) proponents of longtermism genuinely agree with the philosophy. But then, it’s a time honored tradition of the rich and powerful to soothe their conscience with philosophies that conveniently paint their actions and power as a moral good. One thing I’ve learned in life is that brilliant folks are more than capable of convincing themselves of what they want to believe, whether or not it sounds compelling to someone outside their bubble.