Public Attitudes to Responding to Global Catastrophic Risks: A New Zealand Case Study
John Kerr1, Matt Boyd2, Nick Wilson1
1University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand.
Summary
Most New Zealand adults support government planning for global catastrophic risks (GCRs), such as pandemics and AI. Public opinion favors developing specific plans and a dedicated agency to address these extreme threats.
Area of Science:
- Societal risks
- Public policy
- Risk management
Background:
- Global catastrophic risks (GCRs) pose significant threats to human civilization.
- Public perception and governmental response strategies for GCRs are under-researched in New Zealand.
Purpose of the Study:
- To gauge public support in New Zealand for government action on GCRs.
- To identify demographic and attitudinal factors influencing public support for GCR preparedness.
Main Methods:
- A representative survey of 1012 New Zealand adults was conducted in July 2024.
- Two questions assessed support for government planning and a dedicated agency for extreme risks.
- Multivariable models analyzed demographic and trust-related predictors of support.
Main Results:
- 66% supported government plans for extreme risks; 60% supported a dedicated agency.
- Support correlated positively with age, education, income, and trust in scientists.
- No significant differences in support were found based on gender, ethnicity, or political orientation.
Conclusions:
- A clear majority of the New Zealand public backs government preparedness for catastrophic risks.
- Further research using deliberative methods is recommended to understand opposition and policy trade-offs.
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