Is Doomsday Prepping Rational in the Trump Era?

The question of whether doomsday prepping has become more rational in the Trump era is a complex one. While there are valid arguments on both sides, it is neither more nor less rational now than it was before. The rationality of doomsday prepping depends largely on the specific circumstances, local risks, and an individual's preparedness efforts. Let's explore these dimensions in more detail.

Localized Risks and Preparedness

Firstly, it is essential to ask oneself if the area of residence is prone to various disasters. This includes natural disasters such as wildfires, floods, blizzards, droughts, power outages, earthquakes, hurricanes, and tornadoes. If the likelihood of such events in your area is high, then it is indeed rational to be prepared. However, if you live in a place where the chances of such events are minimal, then the focus should be on other aspects of life.

Common Run-of-the-Mill Disasters

Common run-of-the-mill disasters, rather than the end of the world scenarios, can cause significant panic, suffering, and even death. For instance, a severe earthquake or a massive hurricane can lead to widespread destruction, injury, and loss of life. Therefore, it is more rational to focus on preparing for the disasters that are most likely to occur in your region. By doing so, you don't waste resources on less likely events.

Focusing on Localized Efforts

For those who do live in areas prone to natural or man-made disasters, the rational approach is to focus initially on the localized and most likely events. For example, if you live in a region prone to wildfires and drought, then preparing for water conservation and fire prevention should be the priority. This approach ensures that your efforts are aligned with the most significant risks facing your community.

Why Localized Preparedness Makes Sense

The rationale behind localized preparedness is straightforward. Disasters can occur at any time, and being prepared for the most significant risks reduces the likelihood of chaos and suffering. Preparing for a tornado but having to deal with an earthquake is less than ideal, but it would almost certainly leave you more prepared than those who did not prepare at all. This approach aligns with the principle of being prepared without disrupting daily life.

Preparing for Catastrophic Events

While the focus should be on localized events, it is also important to prepare for catastrophic events. This can include extreme weather conditions, pandemics, and even geopolitical upheavals. However, it is crucial to strike a balance. Preparing for truly catastrophic events should not interfere with one's ability to live a fulfilling life. For my family and our team, preparedness revolves around our "urban homestead." We have built our preparedness around the lifestyle we want, rather than the other way around.

Urban Homestead Approach

For example, instead of focusing solely on acquiring survival gear, we focus on building a productive garden, raising chickens and rabbits, and even constructing a wood-fired outdoor kitchen. These activities align with our interests and enhance our quality of life while preparing us for potential disasters. If we need to rotate food out of our freezer, we have a barbecue with friends and family, which we enjoy.

Is There a Form of Prepping That Is Not Rational?

While the urban homestead approach is generally rational, there are certain forms of prepping that may not be. If prepping interferes with one's ability to live a fulfilling life, it may not be rational or healthy. Extreme focus on prepping can lead to obsessions and hinder relaxation and happiness. It is essential to maintain a healthy balance between preparedness and enjoying life.

For instance, spending every waking hour stockpiling supplies and ignoring personal relationships and hobbies can be detrimental. A balanced approach is key. Preparedness should enhance, not disrupt, one's quality of life. If you are so focused on prepping that you can't take time to be happy or relax, then it may be irrational.

Ultimately, the rationality of doomsday prepping depends on the individual's circumstances, local risks, and preparedness efforts. By focusing on the most likely and localized events, preparing for catastrophic situations in a balanced way, and maintaining a fulfilling lifestyle, one can achieve a rational approach to preparedness.