Reply #2: I have to disagree

[Mythsaje]

that we'll destroy it before we find a way to escape it. I also believe technology will give us the ability to repair at least some of the damage we've done. By the end of this century we will almost certainly be in space, and possibly even in other star systems. FTL is a distinct possibility, given the mathematics that have recently come to light.

We're not going to have much of a choice.

On the other hand, the last thing we need is another superweapon. If we can use anti-matter to propel spacecraft, great. That's wonderful. It already looks as though we may be working with nuclear rockets sometime in the near future. I'd rather see us using something else for that, myself. I don't think we need to use potential atom bombs to hurl us into space if we can avoid it. Once out there... that's a bit different.

I have entirely too much faith in our potential to feel so negatively about our future prospects. We are capable of astounding feats, as well as horrific acts of stupidity and arrogance. But we are a young species still. I know it's not exactly a popular view here on DU, but we HAVE come a long way, both technologically and culturally...though sometimes it may not seem like it.

We're growing and learning, just as we are supposed to.