Daniel Schmachtenberger is a social philosopher, systems thinker, and researcher. He is known for his work on civilization design, focusing on improving collective intelligence and sensemaking to support a sustainable and conscious evolution of society. Schmachtenberger explores the interconnectedness of global crises and advocates for addressing the underlying "generator functions" that drive systemic problems.
Schmachtenberger is a founding member of The Consilience Project, which aims to enhance public sensemaking and dialogue in an era of rapid technological change. He is also a founder of the Civilization Research Institute, a nonprofit focused on preventing civilizational risks and promoting social coordination. His work encompasses areas such as catastrophic and existential risk mitigation, analysis of progress narratives, and the design of new economic and governance systems that incentivize life-enhancing behaviors.
Schmachtenberger's recent work includes exploring the implications of technology on society and advocating for a "radical cultural enlightenment" to overcome current existential threats. In 2024, he co-authored a paper analyzing the history and consequences of progress, questioning mainstream narratives that equate progress with economic growth. He frequently participates in podcasts and interviews, discussing topics like civilization design, artificial intelligence risks, and the future of society.