This excerpt from "On the Edge" by Nate Silver, a renowned statistician, explores the world of risk-taking through the lens of gambling, sports betting, and artificial intelligence. The book analyzes the decision-making processes and personalities of individuals in these domains, highlighting the intersection of probability, game theory, and human behavior. Silver contrasts the quantitative mindset of “Riverians” - those who approach risk with a calculated, analytical approach - with the more politically-charged, often dogmatic, perspective of those residing in “The Village”. The text then delves into the potential existential risks posed by artificial intelligence, arguing that the development of advanced AI systems requires careful consideration of not only their technical capabilities but also their potential impact on human society and the future of the planet.