Hi, I'm Leopold Aschenbrenner. I work as a Research Fellow in Economics at Forethought Foundation.
I'm interested in economic growth and the very long run future of our civilization.
I'm also affiliated with the Global Priorities Institute at the University of Oxford and have received an Emergent Ventures grant for Progress Studies. I recently graduated as valedictorian from Columbia at age 19.
Some of my previous economic theory work has been on the relationship between existential risk and economic growth. Paper and article for Works in Progress here; covered on Marginal Revolution here and here.
I hope to share my research and what I've been thinking about on this site. I'd be delighted if you subscribed. Or follow me on Twitter.
What I've Been Reading (June 2021)
Religion, faith and the future, level vs. growth effects, the Cuban Missile Crisis, science fiction, and more.
Benjamin Yeoh Interviews Me (Podcast)
A good introduction to my general worldview. Covering existential risk, economic growth, declining fertility rates, and much more.
The Economics of Decoupling
America’s economic dependence on China creates a security vulnerability. But tariffs are royally ineffective at mitigating this vulnerability. I consider the underlying informational problem.
Europe’s Political Stupor
On the European obsession with America, the dearth of the political on the Continent, and the downsides of homogeneity.
The Risks of Stagnation (Article for Works in Progress)
Human activity and new technologies can be dangerous, threatening the very survival of humanity. Does that mean economic growth is inherently risky?
Burkean Longtermism
People will not look forward to posterity, who never look backward to their ancestors.
My Favorite Chad Jones Papers
Some of the very best, and most beautiful, economic theory on long-run growth.
What I've Been Reading (June 2021)
Religion, faith and the future, level vs. growth effects, the Cuban Missile Crisis, science fiction, and more.
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