MIT Scientists Predict Society's Downfall By 2040

The prediction of the end of the world has been a topic of discussion for many years, but there is no proof of the actual timing of such an event. While most are hoping for improvements in lifestyle, a group of scientists from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has used technology to guess the societal collapse. Using a computer system, the team of researchers examined data patterns like population, natural resources and energy usage.

Surprisingly, MIT researchers predict that the collapse might happen in the 21st century. Their study, published by the Club of Rome, points to the upcoming ‘limits to growth’ as a key factor leading to the eventual downfall. To be precise, the scientists claimed that the year 2040 is the potential time when society might face challenges.

Gaya Herrington, a Dutch researcher and adviser to the Club of Rome, revisited studies conducted in the 1970s regarding societal collapse. According to a report by The Guardian, Herrington confirmed that the predictions made decades ago about the collapse seem to be aligning with the current scenario. The 1970s study suggested that economic growth could conclude by the end of the current decade, followed by a potential collapse a decade later.

“From a research perspective, I felt a data check of a decades-old model against empirical observations would be an interesting exercise. The MIT scientists said we needed to act now to achieve a smooth transition and avoid costs. That didn’t happen, so we’re seeing the impact of climate change. The key finding of my study is that we still have a choice to align with a scenario that does not end in collapse. With innovation in business, along with new developments by governments and civil society, continuing to update the model provides another perspective on the challenges and opportunities we have to create a more sustainable world,” said Herrington.

The initial report predicting a societal collapse in 2040 wasn’t taken seriously. However, in 2009, a different group of researchers conducted a similar study and their findings came close with the predictions made decades earlier. Published by American Scientist, this study concluded that the results were remarkably accurate, despite the 35 year gap.

Fortunately, Gaya Herrington shared a positive perspective, as she highlighted that there is still an opportunity to choose a path that could avoid society’s collapse. She claimed that through innovation in business, along with new initiatives from governments and society, frequently updating the model and addressing challenges with proper solutions, there will be opportunities to make the world a better place again.