Reply #157: you mean un-inhabitable? [View All]

Or do you want to make my back yard un-inhabitable with your spent fuel rods? I think we could do better is all. We are a smart bunch of people, if we lead, the world will follow (or at least before GWB).

I think you'd be surprised at the benefits NASA, and all the ensuing research, as brought us. http://www.thespaceplace.com/nasa/spinoffs.html
I think its worth every penny. But, it isn't just about the tangible benefits, its about the vision. Lets face it, this little blue ball isn't going to sustain us forever. Space really is the final frontier and possible our only hope.

On the death penalty, I disagree that it is a "proven deterrent". Trust me, I have time when I think that it is just punishment for certain crimes. Again, my objection lies in the fact that in the end, our government has a legal mechanism to kill me, and the means to make it look like I deserve it. That makes me nervous.