A stark warning about the future of humanity has come from Nobel Prize-winning physicist David Gross, who argues that the growing risk of nuclear war could lead to an existential catastrophe in the coming decades. David Gross, winner of the 2004 Nobel Prize in Physics, estimates that humanity may have about 35 years left, based on the increasing probability of a nuclear conflict. In an interview with Live Science, he stated that while the risk was once estimated at about 1% per year, today it could be closer to 2% – or a one in 50 chance each year.

According to him, this calculation is based on mathematical models similar to those used for the concept of half-life, which measure the probability of an event occurring over time. The physicist expresses concern about the deterioration of global relations, citing the war in Europe, tensions with Iran and the crises between India and Pakistan. He also emphasizes the weakening of nuclear arms control agreements.

A key moment is the expiration of the New START agreement on February 5, 2026, the last major agreement between the US and Russia to limit nuclear arsenals.

The danger of artificial intelligence
David Gross also warns about the growing role of artificial intelligence in military systems. He emphasizes that there is a risk that critical decisions will be made by machines operating at speeds beyond human control, while these systems are not infallible and can produce inaccurate results, known as "hallucinations."

In his analysis, he also refers to Enrico Fermi's famous question – "Where is everyone?" – suggesting that advanced civilizations could self-destruct before they achieve long-term survival. Although the picture he presents is disturbing, the physicist maintains a cautious optimism, emphasizing that public awareness and social pressure can affect positive change. "We created these weapons, so we can stop them," he concludes.