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This hinges on the assumption that the upper classes have a dependency on the lower classes, e.g. for labor. Once technology and automation invalidate this assu
by avz 12y ago
This hinges on the assumption that the upper classes have a dependency on the lower classes, e.g. for labor. Once technology and automation invalidate this assumption, Elysium flies off to another star system and the rich live happily ever after while the poor are stuck where they were.
(Note: I'm not advocating this horrible failure of human compassion, I just make a sad observation.)
- eli_gottlieb 12y agoWell, I think part of the issue is: if the rich leave the world and don't take all the resources with them, doesn't that just mean everyone else can do whatever the hell we want in whatever's left behind?
- avz 12y agoWealth is not a bulk of copper. It's the ability to command a productive force. Resources are only one necessary component and definitely not a sufficient one. Humans have had all the resources of this planet for hundreds of thousands of years and lived most of this time in deep penury. Also, the ability to do whatever one wants with the resources left is not the same as the ability to do the productive thing. EDIT: So once Elysium flies away the remaining population will likely have to make do without the productive forces that made Elysium rich in the first place. I guess over time people will find out how to rebuild such productive forces and in the process the society will stratify again. Ultimately Elysium II flies away and the cycle repeats. (Note: or maybe we can have an inclusive economy where everyone has a stake and contribution)
- rasz_pl 12y ago>Elysium flies off Why leave perfectly good source of amusement? You need subjects for the Kings, you need followers for the Gods. Think Hunger Games.