It is thought by some that governments should direct more funds into space exploration while others believe that funds should be used to solve important issues on Earth such as poverty and climate change. I believe that money should first and foremost be spent on tackling problems on Earth.
On the one hand, investing money into space exploration could allow us to discover extraterrestrial resources that could be gathered to be used on Earth. Furthermore, space exploration could teach us more about the universe that we reside in and this knowledge may allow us to invent new things that could be used improve life on Earth. However, space is a vast and empty place and there is no guarantee that these resources or knowledge will be found. As a result, there is the probability that despite investing considerable resources into space exploration, we may return to Earth empty handed.
On the other hand, by directly routing funds into important concerns on Earth we can solve issues more efficiently. For example, by investing in green energy we would be able to alleviate the damage that pollution has done on Earth and help reduce the effect that climate change has done on Earth. Additionally, governments around the world can commit funds to build social housing and government assistance programs that will aid people living in poverty. Unlike space exploration, directly funding programs on Earth gives tangible and guaranteed benefits for issues on Earth.
In conclusion, since we cannot guarantee the benefits of space exploration will be realised, I believe that funds should be prioritised and focused on solving issues on Earth instead of being spent on space exploration.