Choosing a flag to unite a planet [should U.S. or U.N. flag be planted on Mars?]

Int. Herald Tribune ^ | 1.28.04 | Ted Daley

[al_c]

As soon as the UN has a space program, they can put their flag on any planet they visit. But until then, it'll be ours and any country that tags along for the ride.

[TigerTale]

Yes. They do it all the time.

Do you mean that government contractors have a hard time getting paid? Or are you referring to something else? I thought that spending money was one thing at which the government excelled.

[RightWhale]

I thought that spending money was one thing at which the government excelled.

No, they're no better and probably no worse than most, but they also have an election horizon every two years--New Deal. Nothing can plan on survival beyond two years.

[TigerTale]

No, they're no better and probably no worse than most, but they also have an election horizon every two years--New Deal. Nothing can plan on survival beyond two years.

So the problem with a bounty system is that Lockheed Martin (for example) might get five years and $15 billion into a 10-year Mars expedition business plan, only to have the bounty defunded by the current Congress--leaving Lockheed high and dry. Which means no prudent CEO is likely to risk his neck going for a bounty which might not be there when his company crosses the finish line. Is this more or less correct?

[RightWhale]

bounty which might not be there when his company crosses the finish line.

Is there anyone left on earth who trusts the government, even the Feds, to any degree whatsoever?

[Eastbound]

Good link. Thanks.

GET US OUT OF THE UN!

[ChefKeith]

What would the name of the UN ship be?

The Good Ship DOOMED TO FAILURE(but it will cost you so damned much money that you will forget that the mission failed, now send more money and forget this ever happened)