As a whole civilization is getting better. We are becoming less violent, less aggressive and more educated then ever. As the author of freakanomics says "Its a

As a whole civilization is getting better. We are becoming less violent, less aggressive and more educated then ever. As the author of freakanomics says "Its amazing statistically how many people 'Do the right thing.'". Its also discouraging how Hawking does not back any of this with charts or numbers or something that would be convincing. I have to wonder if Hawking's agenda and outlook are from his own "selfish desires". Certainly there are more achievable options then the immense challenges of space. Like underground infrastructure or mass gene therapy that allows immense intelligence for all (think Limitless for all). Also have you noticed that most "dynasties" do not go out like a light switch. Its a very slow decline. Examples: Romans, Ottoman Empire, the Dinosaurs various music artists and athletic teams. I am betting that humanity will end in a slow boring decline.