In short, I'm wondering what place/group/organisation/activity could do for rationality in Europe what Berkeley does for rationality in the US?
Soon, we'll have LWCW in Berlin, which I hope will be an occasion to do some networking among people who think seriously about developing rationality communities. But in the meantime, let's do some brainstorming.
Important note: in comments to this post, please use only consequentialist language. For example, say "If we decided for the base to be on Malta, then X would happen" instead of "I think it should be in Malta, because..."
- What would happen if the rationality base was located in [insert specific city/country]?
- What could such a place offer to you now, that would make you consider a temporary/permanent move?
- What would happen if the European rationality community efforts were centered around some particular research topic (e.g. AI)?
- Is there something you can think of that would speed up community-building in Europe?
Of course, share anything else that you think is relevant to the topic.
Also, see you all in Berlin :)
Ideally, a rationality HQ for Europe will not be too far from any other country, and possibly be in a place supportive of open mindedness and with a strong scientific culture.
That's why I think Berlin is a wonderful choice: while in the recent decades Europe has grown eastwards, it still remains accessible from almost anywhere. Germans also have a reputation of being conscentious people, and Berlin to be a cosmopolitan capital.
Yes, Berlin is the most obvious candidate at this point, and it seems strong on most fronts except climate and prices.
Note that cheap flights make "not be too far from any other country" much less important than it used to be.
Note that saying "X. That's why I think Y" is a straightforward transformation of "I think Y, because X", which I've been asking not to say.
As an exercise in consequentialist thinking, I suggest you rephrase your comment :)