fred@inuxc.UUCP (09/16/83)
Space Colonization will probably not solve the overpopulation problem unless you force people off at gun point. While I have no doubt that there are more than enought people who are willing to colonize space, getting massive numbers of Earthers to move off is not likely. What is more likely is that the heavy, environmentally hazardous industries will find it economical to move off planet. In addition, the communication/information explosion can reduce the amount of ground travel necessary and free people to live and work away from cities. Both of these changes will make the Earth a more desirable place to live. If we don't blow ourselves into subatomic goo the future can be better for both the colonies and the Earth. That is the real rational for going out and builting them. Fred AT&T CP
STOGRYN.ES@PARC-MAXC.ARPA@sri-unix.UUCP (09/22/83)
I applaud the comments made by Keith Lofstrom; I agree that it's is most times easier to cope with the natural environtment than with the "elements" found in big cities (and else where). . . . I find the idea of space colonization very appealing. Freedom! Elbowroom! Virtually unlimited growth! Sure, there will be problems, but I've gotten bored trying to solve the present set, which are mostly between the ears of others. I would rather cope with a meteor shower than a politician with "good intentions". . . Keith Lofstrom This country was built on the idea of manifest destiny (not necessarily conquering others), spreading out, exploring, discovering new lands and new cultures, to boldly go . . . ( I got carried away); that's progress! I don't feel that the United States is progressing like it could or should. How can we? We can't, without taking from others. Let's go out there and explore what doesn't belong to anyone yet. Let's go out there and really see for ourselves what's out there. The early explorers of the new world found resources beyond their comprehension, yet they didn't find THE treasure that they had been searching for. The Russian have found enough excuses to put up a "permanent space station"; can't we? Let's at LEAST get started. Steve Stogryn P.S. We may get the beginings of a space station because of the presidential election, Glenn vs. Regan. Isn't it funny how political expedience has always been the driving force for all US Space projects? No.
STOGRYN.ES@PARC-MAXC.ARPA@sri-unix.UUCP (09/22/83)
Let's show all those third world countries especially that we have no designs on their puny resources. We have our eyes on bigger things. We have better places to go. Go west, young man. . . Out there. . . thata way! Steve Stogryn