No Mercy / No Malice: Quitters

Escape Plans

Tech leaders are increasingly preparing for societal collapse, with some planning to establish alternative societies. George Hahn highlights how figures like Peter Thiel and Sam Altman have made significant preparations, such as purchasing land in New Zealand and stockpiling resources 1. This movement towards secessionism is rooted in the belief that the U.S. is outdated and slow, prompting some to envision a techno-utopian state free from government regulation 2.

The ultimate exit what do I mean by this? What do I mean by Silicon Valley's ultimate exit? It basically means build an opt in society, ultimately outside the US, run by technology.

--- George Hahn

The idea is to create a society where location becomes irrelevant, driven by technological advancements.

   

System Criticism

The criticism of current societal systems by tech leaders is a driving force behind their desire for alternative living arrangements. George Hahn discusses how the perceived inefficiencies and brittleness of the U.S. government have led to calls for secession and the creation of new societies 1. This sentiment is echoed by Balaji Srinivasan, who advocates for a techno-utopian state as a solution to these issues 2.

The thesis was the US had become outdated, brittle and slow. He offered two solutions. You can try to reform change the system from within, or, his preferred option, you can leave.

--- George Hahn

The rise of tech startups focused on secessionist dreams further illustrates this growing discontent with the status quo.