[axus]

The world collectively (mostly the US) spends trillions on national defense, that spending is unnecessary if we all just got along. I think you're right that everyone spending money on local semiconductor industries is even more wasteful.

[SlowTao]

Unfortunately, that defense allows hoarding wealth. If the wealth was more evenly distributed globally, there would be little reason to defend against raids.

This is how places like the US despite having 4% of the population have about a quarter of the material and energy consumption. Not to single them out, I am in Australia, it is a similar ratio.

I am not defending this situation, just highlighting its role.

[XorNot]

Why would a more even distribution of resources lead to less war?

Like, it might but if resources are equally distributed then raiding your neighbors for more is one of the best ways to get more of them.

Does no one study history? War wasn't invented in the 20th century.

Chimps in the damn jungle go to war with each other.

[prewett]

Not all wars are about raiding, especially in the modern era. Putin isn’t interested in Ukraine’s wealth. Nor would a Chinese invasion of Taiwan be about money.

[SlowTao]

You are right. I was far to reductionist there.

"No wars have been more ruthless and ravaging than “just” wars, fought in “defense” of religion, honor, or principle. If war must be, give me rather a war to capture an enemy’s wealth and territory, based on honest greed, in which I shall be careful not to destroy what I want to possess. " - Alan Watts