Chris_Roberts comments on Cryonics: Can I Take Door No. 3? - Less Wrong

5 Post author: Chris_Roberts 05 September 2012 03:49PM

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Comment author: Chris_Roberts 07 September 2012 12:25:07PM 0 points [-]

And yet, from a consequentialist standpoint, there shouldn't be. Regardless of potential pitfalls, this is unlikely to change: I suspect it's "hardwired" into our psychology. But there is also a reverse tendency, especially on the part of the public attitude towards leaders, where it is better to be seen to be doing something rather than nothing. Even if it is not clear what action should be taken.

Comment author: shminux 07 September 2012 02:39:17PM 0 points [-]

And yet, from a consequentialist standpoint, there shouldn't be.

Only if your reasoning is extremely reliable in estimating the consequences of your action or inaction. Otherwise you may end up doing more harm by acting than you would by inacting (happens all the time). I am guessing that this is a part of what keeps people from acting.