Should we really start life on another planet?

The idea of starting life on another planet has been a topic of interest for scientists and space enthusiasts for decades. With the advancement of technology and space exploration, the prospect of colonizing another planet has become more achievable than ever. However, the question remains: should we really start life on another planet? 

There are various justifications both for and against establishing life elsewhere in the universe. While some contend that it is essential to humanity's survival, others believe else wise. Climate change, pollution, and overcrowding are just a few of the environmental problems the planet is currently dealing with. The existence of a backup planet could secure the survival of the human species in case of a catastrophic event, such as a global pandemic or a significant asteroid impact. There may be new prospects for scientific investigation and discovery if life began on another planet. Scientists might discover proof of extraterrestrial life by researching the circumstances on other planets, which would also help them understand the universe's beginnings. This could result in ground-breaking scientific and technological achievements.

Yet, before establishing life on another planet, there are a number of moral and practical issues that need to be taken into account. The possible damage that might be done to the environment of the new planet is one of the key worries. Introducing humans and other living things to a new planet could result in the introduction of new species that could upset the balance of the planet's environment and possibly do irreparable harm. More resources and technological developments would be needed to start life on another planet. It is uncertain whether the advantages would balance the costs of sending a spacecraft into orbit and establishing a colony on another planet. Instead, this huge sum of money could be invested in our own planet to combat current global issues like climate change and world hunger which help create a more sustainable and equitable future for both people and the planet.

Moreover, establishing life on another planet can have social and political repercussions. Concerns regarding inequality and prejudice may arise from the question of who would be permitted to travel to the new planet and who would be left behind. Additionally, the establishment of a new colony can result in battles over control of resources and political instability. 

The decision of whether to begin life on an extraterrestrial planet is a debatable one that calls for careful analysis of such advantages and disadvantages. While there are strong justifications for creating a secondary planet and the potential scientific advancements that might result, there are also important ethical, logistical, and social issues that need to be taken into consideration. The choice of whether to establish life on another planet should ultimately be based on a careful cost-benefit analysis that considers the potential effects on the environment, society, and the future of humanity. Moreover, if we can effectively implement scientifically proven standards and policies to tackle global issues such as climate change and economic inequality, then our own planet is best suited for life to flourish as it has been for billions of years. We have spent trillions of dollars trying to find life on other planets and billions of dollars destroying life on this one. Maybe if we reconsider our monetary allocation and legislation, we won't need to start life on any other planet. 

Bibliography 

Tasker, E. (2019, May 17). Starting life on another planet. Many Worlds. https://manyworlds.space/2019/05/17/starting-life-on-another-planet/

Worrall, S. (2021, May 4). Will humans ever colonize other planets? they should. Science. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/article/there-s-only-one-way-for-humanity-to-survive--go-to-mars-