Billionaires Jeff Bezos and Richard Branson are racing to space. Elon Musk says he wants to die on Mars.
All three men say that combating climate change is important to them, but remain invested in carbon intensive businesses.
The billionaire space race further serves to legitimize the benevolence of these great fortunes and the emissions these titans emit.
(source: Virgin Galactic)
How ironic that reknown astronomer and author Carl Sagan coined the phrase, “billions upon billions” and today, we find the Cosmos dominated by billionaires.
Today Richard Branson will make history with his suborbital flight to the edge of space (50 miles). Jeff Bezos will make history again in 9 days with his suborbital flight to the Kármán line (62 miles).
I admire both of these accomplishments. Well done gentlemen. But it’s important to consider the broader context of our current gilded age:
What does this mean as we contemplate the future of earth and the climate crisis?
Will this ultimately unite or further divide humanity?
Have these men been elevated to the status of “demi god?”
Third, this race to space will initially create competition (e.g., Branson vs Bezos) and people will be divided over priorities (earth vs space). The Wizard in me hopes we unite behind the quest to become an interplanetary species. It all depends on leadership.
Second, I think humanity can tackle both space and climate change, simultaneously. We can walk and chew gum at the same time. Cooperation among nations is the key.
First, let me say how amazing it will be when suborbital flight is open to the common person. Carbon emissions will need to be mitigated, and that's where I think Musk might shine over Branson and Bezos.
The masses have given them a "god-like" status, as they assume their place among the stars.
Third, this race to space will initially create competition (e.g., Branson vs Bezos) and people will be divided over priorities (earth vs space). The Wizard in me hopes we unite behind the quest to become an interplanetary species. It all depends on leadership.
Second, I think humanity can tackle both space and climate change, simultaneously. We can walk and chew gum at the same time. Cooperation among nations is the key.
First, let me say how amazing it will be when suborbital flight is open to the common person. Carbon emissions will need to be mitigated, and that's where I think Musk might shine over Branson and Bezos.