The world's biggest problems

These are 80+ of the world’s most pressing problems. The purpose of sharing them is two-fold:

(1) Increase awareness of what can still be improved in the world (hint: there’s a lot we’re doing right but still more to do!)

(2) Provide smart, ambitious people with problems to work on

Society likes to beat ambition out of us. But if you’re fortunate enough to be in a position where you no longer have to work for money, or have enough runway to work on an important problem, you should do it.

One of the most damaging narratives in the history of entrepreneurship (aka solving problems in the world) is the notion that ideas for what to work on just fall on your lap—as if whispered by a genie. This is disempowering because it feeds the narrative that becoming an Entrepreneur relies on something outside of your control. This is A-grade BS. It merely makes for a compelling journalistic story. 

In reality, working on an important problem starts with believing that a) there are important problems to work on and b) you too, can be someone who works on those problems. From there, you can follow a rivers of inquiry approach to decide what problem 'pulls' you.

If you decide to work on any of these, I want to talk to you.

Tweet or DM me @_alexbrogan and tell me what you’re building.

P.S. — this list is incomplete and non-exhaustive at best. The descriptions stated are merely designed to serve as an introduction to the problem. I intend to add to it over time.

This is a Google doc version (commenting enabled) of the below, please suggest new problems or recommendations for further reading!

Last updated: November 2024.

Agriculture

Feeding 10 billion people by 2050 is a huge challenge (food)

Feeding 10 billion people by 2050 is a monumental challenge. We need to produce more food in the next 30 years than in all of human history. This requires a shift in how we grow food, as arable land is decreasing due to erosion—over half has likely been lost since agriculture began. Fossil fuel dependence for fertilizers poses another risk, highlighted by soaring food prices after the Ukraine crisis.

Current attempts to solve this include indoor farming and precision agriculture, particularly in the Netherlands. Their advanced greenhouses yield up to 10 times more than traditional farms and have cut chemical use drastically. The U.S. is starting to adopt these technologies, with companies like AppHarvest leading the charge.

Further reading:

Global supply (scarcity) of water

Water scarcity is a huge problem. Only 1% of Earth's water is available for use. In the western US, reservoirs are at record low levels. Rising temperatures and declining runoff are worsening the situation. Taiwan is facing its worst drought in 56 years, impacting global semiconductor production. Floods in Central China and Germany have resulted in over 200 deaths. This isn’t just a local issue; it's global.

Further reading:

Climate (Energy Transition)

Biodegradable plastics

Over 300 million tons of plastic are produced each year. A significant portion ends up in landfills and oceans. The causes are clear: convenience, lack of recycling, and insufficient alternatives.

Further reading:

Waste removal

Over 2 billion tons of it are created each year. Most goes to landfills, contributing to pollution and climate change. The causes are clear: population growth, consumption patterns, and inadequate waste management systems.

Further reading:

Pollution is getting worse

Cities like Beijing and Shanghai suffer from it daily. And it’s not just the factories; over 100,000 ships contribute significantly. These ships can emit as much as 5,000 tons of sulfur each year, equal to 50 million cars. This is a problem that affects everyone.

The causes are multifaceted: industrial emissions, shipping pollution, and insufficient regulations. Current efforts focus on cleaner fuels and technologies, but they are not enough.

Further reading:

There's not enough coordination on climate change and transitioning to new energy sources

The coordination on climate change and energy transition is woefully inadequate. The global energy market is worth over $6 trillion. Yet, we still rely heavily on fossil fuels. The transition is slow, hampered by outdated regulations and entrenched interests.

Current efforts, like solar and battery commodification, are promising but insufficient. Companies are experimenting, but their solutions often lack scalability.

Further reading:

Rebrand nuclear

Despite being carbon-free, its public perception is poor. Historical accidents have created fear. In the U.S., about 20% of energy comes from nuclear, but it could be much higher. The key issue is education. Misunderstandings about safety and waste management prevent wider adoption.

Further reading:

Consumer

Despite its size, influencer marketing is still broken

Attribution is nearly impossible. Brands struggle to quantify why they need influencers. They often do it because others do. Marketers see it as a brand awareness play, not a measurable channel. The problem? Finding the right influencers is tough. Only 39% of marketers are happy with their matches.

The size of the issue is substantial. Billions are spent on influencer campaigns annually, yet measurement remains elusive. Current efforts to fix this? Tools exist for finding and managing influencers, but they don't solve the core problem.

Further reading:

We need a bloomberg terminal for everything

Data is crucial, yet access is limited. In finance, a Bloomberg Terminal provides immediate insights. But for other sectors, the data landscape is fractured. For example, understanding how (the very high) life expectancy in Hong Kong correlates to other factors requires in-depth, structured data that is not readily available.

Current efforts are scattered. Companies are trying to create data repositories, but they often lack the breadth and structure needed. Many startups aim to fill this gap, but they face challenges in aggregation and validation.

The rise of AI and machine learning has increased the demand for structured data. Companies need accurate data to train models effectively. Regulatory changes around data privacy also create a need for better data management solutions.

Further reading:

Left-handed people

About 10-15% of the global population is left-handed, equating to over a billion individuals. Studies indicate that left-handed individuals generally earn less. This status discrepancy is a pressing issue.

Most products are designed for right-handers, leaving left-handed people to struggle with tools and technologies that don’t cater to their needs.

Further reading:

We need to fix mainstream media to focus more on important causes (and truth)(read: problems in society)

The problem is clear: mainstream media has lost its way. Trust in news organizations is plummeting. In 2021, only 58% of Americans trusted national news. This is a 35% drop among Republicans since 2016. The decline in journalism is staggering. From 114,000 newsroom employees in 2008 to just 85,000 in 2020—a 26% drop.

Why is this happening? The rise of social media and digital advertising is a major factor. Platforms like Facebook and Google have siphoned off revenue, leaving traditional media struggling. In 2008, U.S. newspapers earned $38 billion in ad revenue; by 2020, that number had fallen to below $9 billion. Emotion-driven clickbait dominates the landscape. Anger and sensationalism generate clicks, and falsehoods spread six times faster than the truth on Twitter.

Current efforts to combat these issues include fact-checking initiatives and calls for media literacy. However, these alone won't solve the systemic problems.

Further reading:

Cybersecurity

Online scamming is growing exponentially

It's estimated that scams cost U.S. consumers about $3.3 billion in 2020 alone. The rise of technology, especially AI, has made it easier for scammers to operate. Current efforts to combat this include better education for consumers and stronger regulations on tech companies.

Further reading:

Defence

Risks from atomically precise manufacturing

Atomically precise manufacturing (APM) holds promise and peril. The ability to manipulate matter at the atomic level could revolutionize industries but also create existential risks. The stakes are high. If we can produce anything, including weapons, it raises concerns about proliferation. Estimates suggest there's a 4–5% chance that advanced nanotechnology will be realized by 2040. This technology could lead to a cheaper, faster manufacturing process, but it also carries significant risks.

Further reading:

China's ascendance

China's rise is a problem for the U.S. It's not just a matter of pride; it’s economic and strategic. R&D spending in the U.S. dropped from 69% to 30% of the global total. That's a significant shift. China’s economic influence is growing. It's now the largest trading partner for more countries than the U.S. This is fueled by initiatives like the Belt and Road.

The U.S. dollar still holds strong, representing nearly 60% of global reserves. But military spending doesn’t equate to effectiveness. The U.S. outspends, but China’s dollar stretches further due to lower costs. 

Further reading:

Semiconductor manufacturing concentration

Taiwan accounts for over 60% of global semiconductor production and 90% of the most advanced chips. Yet, geopolitical tensions are reshaping the landscape. TSMC is expanding production to Arizona, investing $40 billion, which could raise manufacturing costs by 55% in the U.S. This shift threatens Taiwan's dominance.

The root causes include the U.S.-China rivalry, COVID-19 disruptions, and the war in Ukraine. Governments are now prioritizing local supply chains for critical tech, leading to a brain drain of talent from Taiwan to China. The CHIPS Act in the U.S. aims to incentivize domestic production but comes with high costs and risks.

Further reading:

Education

College is the ticket to the middle class, but education is unaffordable

College is critical for middle-class entry, yet it’s unaffordable. Since 1980, college costs have surged 169%, while young workers' earnings rose only 19%. Today, two-thirds of jobs require a degree, but many young adults live at home—over 50% of 18- to 29-year-olds. This is a crisis of social mobility.

The causes? Stagnant wages, rising education costs, and growing wealth inequality. Young people face insurmountable student debt, totaling $1.7 trillion, surpassing credit card debt.

Further reading:

E-Commerce

We need more efficient ways to repurpose ecommerce goods (resale)

E-commerce goods need efficient repurposing. The market for recommerce is projected to hit USD 289 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 15.8%. This growth is driven by sustainability concerns, the cost-effectiveness of used goods, and a desire for unique items. Current efforts include companies like ThredUp and The RealReal, which focus on resale but are limited in scope.

Further reading:

Overstock for retailers

Brands produce over $500B worth of excess goods each year. Much of this ends up in landfills. The problem is not just in apparel; other categories, like beauty, see less than half of their inventory sold annually.

The causes are clear: overproduction, inefficient inventory management, and a lack of tech solutions. Current marketplaces to offload excess stock are outdated and inefficient. They rely heavily on human labor rather than software solutions.

Further reading:

No one has figured out discovery driven shopping

Discovery-driven shopping is uncharted territory. Amazon dominates with its search-driven model—buying rates soar to 74% for Prime members. Yet, there's a gap. No one has cracked the code for recreating the serendipity of browsing in physical stores. The e-commerce market is projected to exceed $6 trillion globally by 2024. If just a fraction of that could pivot to discovery-driven commerce, the potential is immense.

The causes are multifaceted. Online shopping is efficient but lacks the emotional engagement found in physical retail. People crave social interactions and recommendations when shopping. Current efforts are emerging. Companies like Flagship are pioneering creator-driven commerce, allowing individuals to curate their own online boutiques. This model has proven successful, with creators generating over $1 million in sales.

Further reading:

Finance

We need better global redistribution of wealth

Wealth is still unevenly distributed globally. $5,000 can save a life, yet millions live on less than that. This suffering is preventable. Current efforts to redistribute wealth lack organization and scale.

Over 700 million people live in extreme poverty. Many initiatives exist but need better funding and execution. Current efforts are piecemeal, driven by NGOs and charities, often without sustainable models.

Further reading:

Providing more ownership to everyone in america is a powerful wealth building strategy

The top 10% own 89% of stocks. The wealthiest 1% control nearly half of all household stocks. This is a massive concentration of wealth. It’s growing because of policies that favor the rich, like lower capital gains taxes and mortgage interest deductions.

The problem is exacerbated by financialization. Financial assets to GDP peaked at 5.9:1 during the pandemic. Housing is becoming unaffordable. In 1970, it took 2.7 years of median income to buy a home. By 2020, that jumped to 5.6 years. This is a crisis of access and equity.

Current efforts focus on enhancing stock market participation. Many companies are exploring ways to democratize access to assets. Yet, nearly half of U.S. households still don’t invest in stocks.

Further reading:

Access to exclusive industries is tightly controlled

Many exclusive industries—like Hollywood and Silicon Valley—require connections to get in. This limits the potential number of innovators. And considering that 98% of social value from innovations is passed to consumers, this is a huge loss for society. If more people had access, more people could innovate.

Y Combinator is an example of a company that’s democratised access to venture capital. But we need more.

Further reading:

Government/Politics

Governments aren't measuring their own effectiveness

Governments are failing to measure their own effectiveness. This is a huge oversight. Take the CDC, receiving just 1% of the defense budget, while public health infrastructure crumbled during the pandemic. The Department of Agriculture has a budget of $150 billion. How effective is it? No one knows, and that’s a problem.

The size of the issue is staggering. Billions go unaccounted for in government spending. Yet, there's little scrutiny. Current efforts to address this lack of institutional criticism are minimal. We see tons of corporate and policy criticism, but government departments remain largely unexamined.

Further reading:

We need more high-leverage ways to speed up economic growth

In the U.S., GDP growth has averaged just 2% over the last decade. That’s not enough to lift living standards significantly. The causes are complex: regulatory burdens, inefficient institutions, and lack of innovation.

Further reading:

Changing sentiments on the role of government

Trust in government is eroding. A significant shift occurred during the Reagan Revolution, where 60% of Americans believed government was a friend, but now that number has plummeted to about 30%. This shift has deep roots in political rhetoric, which increasingly frames government as an adversary rather than a partner.

Causes are multifaceted. The rise of individualism, market-driven ideologies, and a cultural narrative that vilifies government play significant roles. The decline of community organizations further exacerbates this distrust. 

Further reading:

The IRS is overwhelmed, and it’s not helping the US debt position

Audits have plummeted from over 3% of tax returns in 1960 to less than 0.5% today. This means around $600 billion in taxes go unpaid every year. The wealthiest 1% account for 28% of that loss.

The complexity of the tax code is a big part of the problem. Loopholes abound, and tax “reform” has only made it worse. As a result, tax avoidance has become a strategy for the rich.

Current efforts to fix this are inadequate. More audits would help, but the IRS lacks the resources. We need new technology to streamline filing and enforcement.

Further reading:

Politics isn’t focused enough on solutions

Politics is failing to deliver solutions. It’s entangled in conflicts over blame rather than focusing on fixing problems. The U.S. government budget is over $6.55 trillion, dwarfing the combined net worth of the world’s top-10 billionaires, which sits at $1.15 trillion. This disparity highlights a significant issue: the sheer scale of government spending compared to the wealth of individuals. The government spending effectively really matters.

The causes are multifaceted. There’s a lack of optimization in spending, systemic inefficiencies, and a pervasive cynicism that deters engagement. Many assume all politicians are corrupt or that their votes don’t matter, leading to apathy.

There’s growing frustration with the status quo, increasing political polarization, and a surge in civic engagement driven by social media. 

Further reading:

Declining infrastructure in the US

The U.S. infrastructure is in decline. Public spending on infrastructure has been stuck at 1.3% of GDP since 1983. One in five roads is in poor condition. Forty-five percent of Americans lack access to public transit. Water main breaks happen every two minutes.

This underinvestment is a problem. It leads to crises like the Flint water disaster and the Miami condo collapse. While the U.S. spends little, China invests ten times more in infrastructure. This disparity affects mobility and safety.

Further reading:

Privatized R&D = privatized progress

Federal R&D funding has dropped significantly, with private investment taking its place. From the 1960s to now, federal funding has decreased by nearly 30%. This shift is driven by market pressures that favor short-term results over long-term exploration.

Current efforts to address this issue include pushing for increased government funding and public-private partnerships. However, these often fail to tackle the root cause: the prioritization of profit over public good.

The government has a critical role to play in funding specific-types of innovation that require long-term, patient capital and that cannot be solved by private markets due to the lack of a profit incentive. This isn’t happening on the scale it needs to. 

As a reminder, a non-exhaustive list of technologies the US government funded include:

  • The Internet, originally developed as ARPANET by DARPA
  • GPS technology, developed by the Department of Defense ($5.6 billion investment from 1973-2000)
  • Google’s initial algorithm, funded by NSF and CIA grants
  • Touch screen technology, developed through NSF fellowships
  • SIRI voice activation system, funded by DARPA with $22 million
  • Tesla’s early development (received $465 million government loan in 2009)
  • Modern wind energy technology and turbines (DARPA)
  • Self-driving car technology (DARPA initiative)
  • Airbag technology (military and space research)
  • Most innovative drugs and pharmaceuticals (NIH invested $792 billion from 1936-2011)
  • MRI technology
  • Kidney matching program algorithms
  • DNA amplification and biotechnology advances
  • Microchips (originally for military missile targeting)
  • Semiconductor technology
  • Radar systems
  • Space exploration technologies

Further reading:

Healthcare

The rise of egg freezing / fertility crisis

The average age of first-time mothers is increasing, with significant implications. By 2040, over 20% of Americans will be seniors. This demographic shift isn't just about aging; it's about the delayed childbearing of women.

Currently, 30% annual growth in egg freezing cycles signals rising demand. Yet, the overall numbers are low, indicating a nascent market. The process remains complex and stigmatized, holding back wider adoption.

If you believe that family formation is critical to the stability of society and observe that marriages rates are falling (see below), this is a major problem.

Further reading:

Falling birthrates

Falling birthrates are a significant issue. From 5.7 children per family in the past, we're down to 2.4 today. Italy shows even lower rates. This decline is alarming, as it threatens population sustainability.

The causes are multi-faceted. Economic pressures, changing social norms, and ineffective government incentives play a role. Current solutions are limited and often miss the mark.

Further reading:

Rising childcare costs

In the U.S., parents spend an average of $200 to $1,300 per month on childcare, depending on location and age group. This can consume nearly 20% of a family's income. The primary causes? Rising demand, stagnant wages, and insufficient state funding.

Current efforts focus on subsidies and public programs, but they often fall short. The system is fragmented. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and many families are left to fend for themselves.

The financial cost is the largest determinant of the decision to have a child. Hence solving childcare costs is imperative for fixing our declining fertility rates.

Further reading:

The invisible epidemic: autoimmune disease

Autoimmune diseases are a growing problem. They affect 1 in 10 people globally. In the U.S., around 50 million are affected, with women making up 75% of that number. The incidence of these diseases is rising by 3% to 9% annually. This is alarming.

The causes are multifaceted. Increased exposure to toxic chemicals and infections may play a role. Changing diets and lifestyles could be contributing factors as well. Current treatments exist but are limited. They manage symptoms rather than cure the diseases.

Further reading:

The hospital sector is going underwater

Over 34 million admissions a year across 6,100 hospitals, yet nearly 4% of the $300 billion in hospital bonds are struggling with payments. Debt-to-EBITDA ratios have surged to 3.9x, while bad debt has hit $50 billion, with 60 hospitals downgraded this year alone.

The causes are multifaceted: rising interest rates, low profit margins, increased labor costs, and a shift toward outpatient care models. The pandemic exacerbated these issues, leading to a historic reliance on federal support.

Current efforts are underway to alleviate the strain. CMS proposed $9 billion in remediation payments and a 3.1% increase in outpatient reimbursements for 2024. However, the fundamental structure of the industry remains problematic, with inadequate reimbursement rates and high fixed costs.

Further reading:

Women's health

Women make up over half the population, yet their health research is underfunded. For instance, diseases affecting women are often overlooked in favor of "men’s diseases." This leads to a funding imbalance, where women's health research receives significantly less focus.

One in six North American women will require fertility treatments, which can cost between $20,000 and $40,000 per round. This is a staggering figure considering the financial strain it puts on families. The lack of investment in women’s health is primarily due to historical biases in medical research funding.

Further reading:

Clinical trials in healthcare remain a bottleneck to scientific progress

Clinical trials face significant challenges. Less than 15% of patients know about potential trials. A fifth of enrolled participants drop out. This leads to delays and increased costs, hindering drug development.

The problem is sizable. Delayed trials can cost pharma companies millions. Efficient trials are essential. Current efforts include technologies like Medable, which optimizes protocols using historical data. Companies like Pluto Health and Mural Health aim to improve patient engagement and payment processes, respectively.

Further reading:

Highly leveraged demographics

Over 100 million Americans are burdened with medical debt. It leads to financial ruin for many. Rising healthcare costs and insufficient insurance coverage are major causes. Attempts to address this issue include nonprofit organizations and legislative efforts, but the problem persists.

Further reading:

Neurological disorders: diseases like alzheimer's, parkinson's, and als

Neurological disorders like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and ALS impact over 50 million people globally. That's a staggering number. Current treatments are largely ineffective. The root causes are complex, involving genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors.

Efforts like AI-driven diagnostics and precision medicine are underway. Companies are exploring new therapies, but progress is slow.

Further reading:

Personalized nutrition: the one-size-fits-all approach to diet is ineffective

The one-size-fits-all diet fails. Over 70% of adults in the U.S. are overweight or obese. Traditional diets ignore individual differences. Genetics, microbiomes, and lifestyles are unique to each person. This leads to ineffective solutions.

Further reading:

Global health access is not where it needs to be

Every year, 10 million people in poorer countries die from preventable diseases like malaria and HIV. In low-income nations, only about $100 is spent on healthcare per person, compared to over $4,500 in the EU and nearly $11,000 in the US. This disparity creates immense opportunity for improvement.

The root causes are straightforward: inadequate funding, lack of infrastructure, and insufficient awareness. Current efforts focus on scaling up basic health treatments, mainly through NGOs and international organizations like the Gates Foundation.

Further reading:

Mental health is still neglected

Estimates suggest that around 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experience mental illness each year. That's approximately 51.5 million people. Yet, funding and attention lag behind physical health.

Why? Mental health is complex. It’s harder to quantify. The stigma surrounding it complicates discussions and funding. Traditional healthcare systems focus predominantly on physical ailments.

Further reading:

The U.S. healthcare system is embarrassingly inefficient

The U.S. healthcare system is a mess. Costs are astronomical. We spend nearly $800 billion annually on administration alone. That's more than Saudi Arabia's GDP. Yet, our life expectancy lags behind many developed nations.

The root of the problem? Administrative bloat. Regulatory tasks consume a third of our healthcare spending. Patients avoid care due to high costs; 64% have delayed treatment. The top hospitals charge seven times the actual service cost.

Further reading:

Safety in healthcare

Healthcare safety is a significant issue. Hundreds of thousands die each year due to preventable mistakes and unsafe products. The FDA oversees countless products but is often slow to act. The current system is riddled with inefficiencies.

The market is vast. In the U.S. alone, healthcare spending surpassed $4 trillion in 2020. Consumers are increasingly aware of the dangers posed by unsafe products. The causes are multifaceted: regulatory lag, profit-driven motives, and outdated testing methods.

Further reading:

Human Augmentation

Improving individual reasoning or cognition

A better decision-making process can lead to better outcomes. This is especially true for complex issues. Estimates suggest that enhancing cognitive abilities could lead to a 10-20% improvement in decision-making effectiveness in various fields.

The causes of this problem are multifaceted. Individuals often lack access to effective tools and training. There is also a lack of research into cognitive enhancement techniques. Current efforts include tools, trainings, and research into nootropics, which could be as impactful as global health interventions.

Further reading:

Whole brain emulation

Whole brain emulation (WBE) aims to replicate human brain functionality in software. This could create advanced AI, but it carries risks. The potential market for this technology is vast, as AI is projected to be a trillion-dollar industry by the end of the decade. Yet, the ethical implications are significant, making it a double-edged sword.

The problem stems from limitations in our understanding of consciousness and intelligence. Current AI lacks the nuanced reasoning of humans. Existing research focuses on simpler organisms, but human emulation is the end goal. Companies like OpenAI and DeepMind are advancing AI, but without WBE, they may never reach human-level reasoning.

Further reading:

Hardware

Power and cooling for data centers

Data centers are about to hit a wall. By 2030, they're projected to use 10% of the global power supply. That's more than Brazil. The AI boom is driving this demand, as training large models requires massive energy, especially with power-hungry GPUs.

The problem lies in limited access to energy and cooling. Builders are scrambling for efficient solutions. Alternatives like renewables and nuclear power are being explored, but lead times for cooling systems have ballooned to five times longer than before. Backup generators now take up to two years to deliver.

Current efforts include Amazon's nuclear-powered data center and Meta's $800M investment in Texas. Companies like Standard Power are looking at modular nuclear reactors. But these solutions are still in early stages.

Further reading:

Real Estate

Addressing the housing affordability crisis

The housing affordability crisis is severe. In 2020, the median home price reached over four times the median household income. This is a drastic increase from two and a half times in 1990. Younger generations struggle to buy homes, which undermines the American Dream.

The problem stems from policies that favor older generations. Tax benefits for mortgage interest help them, while younger people face high rents and stagnant wages.

Further reading:

Science

Global research publishing needs reforming

Research publishing is broken. Each year, around $1 trillion is spent on research globally, yet 55% to 70% of research remains behind paywalls. Five major companies dominate the market, reaping $7 billion in revenue with profit margins higher than tech giants. The system prioritizes profit, not accessibility.

The causes are clear. Traditional journal structures are outdated. The pay-to-publish model favors wealthier institutions, excluding researchers in low- and middle-income countries. Current efforts, like Open Access initiatives, swap one problem for another, keeping the system profitable for publishers.

Further reading:

There's a vast amount of knowledge about scientific progress that remains inaccessible

There's a huge gap in accessible scientific knowledge. Estimates suggest that 70% of scientific research is locked away in inaccessible formats. This limits progress across fields. The causes are multiple: outdated publication models, lack of collaboration, and insufficient funding for knowledge dissemination.

Further reading:

SMBs

We need to build a middle class for startups

Startups face a binary choice: bootstrap or raise massive VC funds. This creates a narrow view of success. Many aspiring entrepreneurs think they must choose one of these paths. The result? A lack of viable middle-ground options. In the U.S., there are 200,000 Mittelstands, generating over $10 trillion in annual revenue. However, many entrepreneurs struggle to find funding without giving up equity, resorting to risky loans or credit.

VCs push founders to raise money too early. High-cost markets make it hard to bootstrap effectively. Many startups become dependent on funding, stalling their growth. Founders often get stuck on a fundraising treadmill, unable to pivot.

There are emerging non-dilutive funding sources, like Pipe and Stripe Capital, that allow businesses to grow without giving away equity. These options are changing the landscape for startups. Yet, the mindset around funding still largely favors venture capital routes.

Further reading:

Social Trends/Problems

The loneliness epidemic

Loneliness is a growing epidemic. It affects 65% of Gen Z, making them the loneliest generation. Relationships are crucial for happiness, yet digital solutions fail to connect people meaningfully. The current systems are inadequate.

The causes are multi-faceted: social media promotes superficial connections, while geographic barriers and busy lifestyles lead to isolation. 

Further reading:

Improving the world's parenting capability

Parenting is a critical skill. Yet many lack the tools to succeed. In the U.S., over 80% of parents report feeling unprepared for the challenges of raising children. This gap is significant.

The causes are multifaceted. Social changes have shifted family structures. Access to resources can be uneven. Many parents are overwhelmed with information but lack practical guidance.

Further reading:

Better answers for how to quantify worker productivity

Worker productivity is hard to quantify. It's a crucial issue in today's economy. Studies show that productivity directly impacts profitability. For example, a 1% increase in productivity can lead to a 2% increase in profits for large companies.

The problem is significant. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, productivity in the nonfarm business sector increased only 2.5% in 2021. Causes include outdated metrics and lack of real-time data. Current solutions are inadequate. Many rely on self-reported metrics or outdated surveys.

Companies are under pressure to optimize performance. Remote work has shifted focus onto individual productivity. New technologies can leverage this shift. Regulatory changes in data privacy also allow for better analytics.

Further reading:

IQ paradox

The IQ paradox highlights a significant problem: the assumption that IQ is a static measure across generations. Research indicates that countries like Ireland have improved their IQ scores dramatically in recent years, suggesting environmental factors play a crucial role. This isn't just an academic issue; it's a matter of societal structure and opportunity.

The size of the problem is substantial. If we consider that IQ can differ by as much as 15 points between generations in some populations, this indicates a potential gap in human capital that could affect economic outputs. The causes? They range from educational access to socio-economic factors.

Further reading:

Archipelago communitarianism

The problem is governance inefficiency. Large systems often result in one-size-fits-all solutions. This leads to dissatisfaction among diverse populations. The U.S. alone has over 330 million people, each with unique needs. Current governance models struggle to adapt.

Causes include bureaucratic inertia and lack of competition. Many citizens feel trapped in systems that don't serve them.

The rise of remote work and digital communities has changed how people interact with governance. Regulatory shifts are making local governance more feasible. Geopolitical tensions are pushing for more agile systems.

Further reading:

Prediction markets are underutilised

Prediction markets are underutilized. They hold immense potential, yet few institutions leverage them. 

Prediction markets excel at aggregating dispersed information and producing accurate forecasts by:

  • Combining diverse perspectives and knowledge from many participants into a market consensus
  • Generally outperforming individual expert opinions and traditional forecasting methods like polls
  • Quickly incorporating and reflecting new information through price movements

These markets can improve decision-making across various domains:

  • Helping corporations make better strategic decisions about products, investments, and operations
  • Assisting policymakers by providing market-based forecasts of economic indicators and policy outcomes
  • Supporting healthcare systems by predicting disease outbreaks weeks in advance

The market mechanism provides valuable incentives that improve forecast quality:

  • Participants have financial motivation to provide accurate information and predictions
  • The system rewards true expertise while discouraging uninformed speculation
  • Market prices naturally weight contributions based on participants’ confidence and knowledge

Prediction markets have proven valuable across multiple sectors:

  • Corporate forecasting and strategic planning
  • Economic and monetary policy decisions
  • Disease outbreak monitoring
  • Election forecasting
  • Scientific research and hypothesis testing

Prediction markets help identify genuine expertise by:

  • Allowing anyone with valuable information to profit from sharing it
  • Reducing reliance on self-appointed experts and pundits
  • Creating a more meritocratic system for recognizing and rewarding accurate forecasting ability

Further reading:

Crossing borders (immigration) is still a hassle

Immigration restrictions are a major hassle. They keep people in poverty and force them to live in dangerous situations. Right now, 750 million people worldwide would migrate if they could. That’s a huge market. Only 356,000 were refused visas to the U.S. in 2021.

The reasons are clear. Governments want to control borders. This leads to strict regulations and a booming underground economy for human trafficking. Current efforts to solve the problem include discussions around easing restrictions and addressing the humanitarian aspects of migration.

Further reading:

Factory farming

Trillions of animals are involved. Estimates suggest 400 billion to 3 trillion vertebrates are killed each year. The majority live in appalling conditions. About 97.5% of farmed animals end up in factory farms. The suffering is real and often overlooked.

The root causes are economic. The demand for cheap meat drives farmers to prioritize profit over animal welfare. The lack of regulation allows abusive practices to persist. Awareness is growing, but change is slow.

Current efforts focus on humane treatment and alternative proteins. Companies are exploring lab-grown meat and plant-based substitutes. 

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Risks of stable totalitarianism

Totalitarian regimes killed over 100 million people in the 20th century. If one such regime could maintain power indefinitely, it could condemn billions to oppression. The risk is not theoretical; the combination of advanced technology and political ambition poses a real threat.

The emergence of technologies like AI, surveillance, and autonomous weapons could empower totalitarianism. Historical patterns show that regimes often fall due to external competition, internal resistance, and succession problems. But technology may allow a regime to overcome these hurdles.

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Suffering risks 's-risks'

Suffering risks, or s-risks, are a pressing issue. They focus on the potential for extreme suffering in future generations, often worse than extinction. The scale is alarming — we might be looking at suffering on a level never seen before if technological advancements concentrate power and control in harmful ways.

Technological advancements like AI, surveillance, and biological weapons can lead to authoritarian regimes. These regimes could perpetuate suffering indefinitely. The neglect of this issue means we lack comprehensive research and actionable strategies.

Efforts to address s-risks are limited but growing. Organizations like the Center for Reducing Suffering are focusing on both narrow interventions (like safe AI development) and broad ones (promoting international cooperation). However, more work is needed to raise awareness and develop effective strategies.

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Wild animal suffering is a significant yet overlooked problem

Most wild animals live short, painful lives, often dying from disease, hunger, or predation. For instance, only one in millions of juvenile animals survive to adulthood. This suffering is largely ignored in the broader animal welfare conversation.

The causes are multifaceted. Nature is brutal, and while suffering is inherent, it doesn't mean we shouldn't care. There's little effort directed at alleviating this suffering, largely because it's seen as a natural condition.

Current efforts in wild animal welfare are nascent. Unlike farmed animal welfare, which has seen tangible wins, wild animal welfare is less tractable due to the complexity of ecosystems. Interventions can be risky, with unpredictable outcomes. However, some advocacy groups have begun to make progress, indicating potential for effective solutions.

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We need more positive values

We need more positive values in society. Historically, dominant groups have sidelined minorities. This has caused suffering and inequality. In the last 300 years, we’ve seen some progress, but the work is far from done.

The size of the problem is substantial. Millions still experience discrimination based on gender, race, or other factors. For instance, over 1.3 billion people live in extreme poverty, highlighting a desperate need for altruism and concern for others.

The causes are multifaceted. They include entrenched social norms, lack of education, and insufficient advocacy.

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Global public goods are underfunded and often neglected

Global public goods are critically underfunded. Estimates suggest a gap of over $2 trillion per year in funding needed to address global challenges like climate change, disease control, and biodiversity loss. The causes? Misaligned incentives, lack of awareness, and insufficient political will.

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Young men are facing a crisis

Young men are in a crisis. Only 40% of college students are male, down from nearly 60% in 1970. This gap leads to lower earning potential. Men without a degree earn $900,000 less over their lifetimes. The decline in marriage rates compounds the issue, creating a growing population of "broke and lonely" men. 

The causes are multifaceted. Educational expectations for boys are lower. Boys face higher suspension rates than girls. The social landscape is changing; young men are living at home in record numbers. In 2020, 52% of young adults lived with their parents, a significant increase from pre-pandemic levels.

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Young adults are struggling to leave home

Young adults are stuck at home. In 2020, 52% of them lived with their parents—the highest rate since the Great Depression. This is not just a trend; it's a crisis. College enrollments are down. Economic pathways are narrower. Relationships are fewer.

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Not enough people have the freedom to work on something meaningful

Most people are trapped in jobs they don't love, chasing money instead of meaning. Studies show that between 50-78% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck. The median wealth per adult globally is only $7,522. These figures highlight a widespread issue: financial insecurity and unfulfilling work.

The causes are rooted in economic structures. Rising costs outpace wages, forcing families to work multiple jobs. Debt traps individuals in cycles of payments, preventing them from pursuing their passions. The professional class often finds itself in high-paying but unfulfilling roles, inflating lifestyles faster than incomes.

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Too many people hide or don't pursue their ambition

Many people hide their ambitions. They fear judgment and failure. This problem is widespread. An estimated 70% of individuals feel pressured to conform, stifling their true aspirations. The causes are rooted in childhood experiences and societal pressures. Schoolyard bullying and social media amplify these fears.

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After a long period of relative peace, geopolitical tensions (and wars) are increasing

Geopolitical tensions are rising. Wars are becoming more frequent. This is a problem for everyone. The size? Consider that in 2021 alone, conflicts displaced over 84 million people worldwide. The causes are complex: resource scarcity, political corruption, and social injustice all play a role.

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With more and more information, humans are becoming more disconnected from our history

As information increases, our connection to history diminishes. A recent study shows that 60% of adults can't name a single historical event from more than 50 years ago. This disconnection stems from the overwhelming volume of data available today and the loss of cultural narratives.

Current efforts to address this include initiatives focused on preserving languages and histories. However, these are often fragmented and lack broad support.

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Almost 58% of the world is unknown to the human race

The vast majority of our planet remains a mystery. Almost 80% of the ocean is unexplored. That’s 71% of Earth's surface. This isn't just a curiosity; it's a problem in the face of resource scarcity and global food production challenges.

Why? Limited technology and funding impede exploration. 

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The majority of human attention is directed towards fleeting, dramatized news

Human attention is a scarce resource. But most of it is consumed by sensationalized news. This trend is growing. In 2022, 57% of Americans reported feeling overwhelmed by news. The causes? A mix of social media algorithms and the business model of news organizations that thrive on clicks.

Current solutions are half-hearted. Some platforms are trying to promote long-form journalism. Others are developing tools for better news curation. But these efforts are fragmented. They lack a comprehensive approach.

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There is still too much scarcity

We don't have enough food, medicine, or critical components like semiconductor chips. The numbers are staggering. Over 800 million people are undernourished. The global shortage of semiconductors has caused production delays across multiple industries, costing billions.

The root causes are complex. Supply chain disruptions, regulatory hurdles, and a lack of investment in manufacturing capabilities.

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Productivity soars, compensation stagnates

Productivity is rising, but compensation is not. Since the 1970s, productivity has grown by over 60%, yet median wages have barely budged. This disconnect is a significant issue for workers and the economy.

Causes include technological advances benefiting owners rather than workers, weakened labor unions, and globalization.

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Income inequality

Between 1979 and 2013, the top 1% saw wages rise by nearly 140%. Meanwhile, the bottom 99% struggled with much slower growth. This disparity stems from wage hikes in finance and tech, sectors that disproportionately benefit the wealthy.

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Turning away from community organisations and towards individualism

Is it a surprise that mental health has deteriorated so significantly over the last 20 years? Good social relationships are the highest predictor of long-term happiness. The decline of community organizations is a significant issue. Participation in religious services dropped from over 70% in the 1990s to less than 50% today. Memberships in groups like the Boy Scouts fell sharply. This reflects a shift towards individualism, eroding social capital.

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Water safety in the richest country in the world

The US has a serious water safety issue. Over 93 million Americans lack access to safe drinking water. This is a staggering number, especially in the richest country in the world. The problem stems from aging infrastructure and a lack of investment in public services. While technology thrives, basic needs are neglected.

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The gap between corporate profits and employee compensation is growing

The gap between corporate profits and employee compensation is massive. Since 1960, corporate profits have increased significantly, while employee wages have barely budged. In 2020, the ratio of CEO pay to the average worker was 351 to 1. This disparity is a symptom of shareholder primacy, where companies focus on maximizing investor returns over fair employee compensation.

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We're all addicted to our phones

Smartphone addiction is a serious problem. American Gen Zers unlock their phones nearly 80 times daily. Almost half of Americans feel anxious without their devices. Daily phone use has risen by 25% each year since 2010. The average American now spends over four hours on their phones. This is not just usage; it's dependence.

The causes are clear. Smartphones integrate into every part of our lives. They distract us from real interactions and tasks. This has led to behaviors resembling addiction. Companies compete for our attention, making it harder to disconnect.

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Online dating is leading to suboptimal outcomes

Online dating is a mess. It’s not just a few bad dates; it’s systemic. Millions of people use these platforms—over 40 million in the U.S. alone. Yet, they often end up unhappy. The algorithms favor looks over personality. Superficiality reigns. This can create unrealistic expectations, leaving users dissatisfied with real-life encounters.

The problem is significant. As marriage rates decline—down 25% since the 1970s—there are real societal implications. Traditional relationships are in jeopardy. The causes? Algorithms designed for engagement, not connection. Users cycle through profiles, leading to burnout and disillusionment.

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Marriage rates lowering

Marriage rates in the U.S. are at an all-time low, even lower than during the Great Depression, with only 6.1 marriages per 1,000 people in 2020. This decline is especially notable among lower-income men. Financial stability is crucial for men but less so for women, indicating a shift in societal expectations..

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The land of the free is the land of the incarcerated

The U.S. has a staggering incarceration rate—629 per 100,000 people. This is not just a statistic; it impacts lives, especially in Black and Hispanic communities. The causes are systemic: tough-on-crime policies, racial bias, and a lack of support for non-violent offenders.

Current efforts to address this include sentencing reforms and re-entry programs, but they are piecemeal and often lack funding.

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Supporting children and family formation

Nearly 1 in 7 children in America live in poverty. That’s about 10 million kids. This is a significant issue in a country with vast resources. The causes are multifaceted: economic disparities, lack of access to education, and insufficient family support systems all play a role.

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