I really doubt that by the time technology lets us build a space elevator that we would actually find it worthwhile to build it, at least here on Earth. Instea

I really doubt that by the time technology lets us build a space elevator that we would actually find it worthwhile to build it, at least here on Earth. Instead those resources and technology development would be better used in creating the manufacturing processes needed to operate in space by mining the moon and capturing asteroids. You don't need a whole lot of manufacturing lifted into space before you can make it self sustaining and growing of its own work.