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If humanity lived at the density of Paris (21,438/km^2), we could all live in an area half the size of Texas (695,663 km^2). So if we're talking about material
by michaelchisari 8y ago
If humanity lived at the density of Paris (21,438/km^2), we could all live in an area half the size of Texas (695,663 km^2).
So if we're talking about material post-scarcity, land is more than plentiful.
- nostrademons 8y agoIf humanity lived at the density of Wyoming (5.97/mi^2), we would have to get rid of 50% of the U.S. population or 98% of the world population, because only 147M people could fit on the habitable land on earth. So yes, it is and it isn't. The question is how many people want to live in Wyoming-level densities vs. Paris-level densities, given the elimination of any cost constraints.
- Wowfunhappy 8y ago> The question is how many people want to live in Wyoming-level densities vs. Paris-level densities. Do they get a choice? I want to live in Disneyland, but there's sadly a distinct lack of real estate available.
- nostrademons 8y agoThat's sort of the definition of a post-scarcity world. If people want stuff but can't have it because there's not enough to go around, that's pretty much the definition of scarcity.
- Wowfunhappy 8y agoThe idea of a "post-scarcity" world is silly. Some resources will always be limited. Land, diamonds, prestige, etc. What matters is, how scarce are the necessities of a moderately-comfortable life? I would posit that people who live in cities do just fine. If some people want more space, well, you can still work for it. Not all jobs are going to disappear.