Global Catastrophic Biological Risks Toward a Working Definition

This article analyzes potential global catastrophic biological risks to further enhance dialogue, clearly define the category of risks, and improve preparedness and response efforts to minimize the impacts of disasters and epidemics associated with such biological threats. The authors review past epidemics such as H5N1, 2009 H1N1, and the 1918 influenza pandemic and hypothesize the impact of additional biological, and technological events, which could damage national governments, international relationships, societal stability, and global security.