[!@#$%!]

science and engineering and exploration create value that makes everyone richer regardless of social inequalities.

e.g.- if you're hungy and borke you might not appreciate how great it's that so many people have a tricorder in their pocket these days, but that's what we have.

especially in 3rd world countries with no prior phone line infrastructure (expensive), cellular communications have allowed countries to bypass decades or even centuries of underdevelopment in telecommunications.

of course cellphones haven't soved hunger (or inequality) bt they have created economic value for countless people.

so-- making allowances for the example here-- maybe something from the space program will allow us to kill malaria. or purify water in ares where it's contaminated. or bring solar electricity to remote regions (or the creation of more & better solar powerplants). or permit agriculture in extreme conditions. or allow for less-polluting vehicles. or developments in software. or internet access for all. who knows? we need research in science and technology, and space exploration helps fund it.

i don't know exactly the meaning of the first post in this thread but i just wanted to clarify that however imperfect, space exploration is a good thing for everyone.