[indigoabstract]

I was thinking the same thing. It's surprising how many people don't get this, arguing that poverty, wars or some other pressing matter must be solved first before we can go to space or spend money on non essential activities.

It may seem counterintuitive, but that way of thinking doesn't actually solve problems, it only perpetuates them.

[robcohen]

While your point has value, there's also value in the perspective that people should take more responsibility for the damage inflicted on others under their watch. For example, it is my perspective that too many people stood by idly while the U.S. engaged in war for the 90's/00's/10's/20's. Too many people said "I want to go make money on wall street/in law/in consulting" instead of either changing their political system or serving it. There is a fair argument that war, particularly war conducted by your own country, is an exceptional thing and requires re-prioritizing duties over desires. The only other exception I can think of that isn't debateable is genocide.

[umeshunni]

> the U.S. engaged in war for the 90's/00's/10's/20's.

but also in the 40s/50s/60s/70s/80s

[hinkley]

I started to respond with more depressing historical facts and then thought better of it.

Look! Colorful rubber balls bouncing in the sunlight! Fun!