This is where that way of thinking loses the argument every time it's tried (and it's tried all the time).
Humans are not smart enough to know what we will discover or what is out there to discover -- but WE DO KNOW that by pushing the limits of our technology and science boundaries we DISCOVER new and useful things (we know from history), which entrepreneurs then embrace and develop and our lives become easier, richer and safer.
Entrepreneurs do not have the ability to finance large, unproven projects -- vibrant countries with educated workforces do. One half of one percent of the U.S. budget for something that produces positive returns and improves the human condition is a sad bit of coin to fixate on and bash.
Spot on.
Exploration and experimentation, and the invention/use of new technologies in that effort, is what opens the doors to entrepreneurs.
Government, in cooperation with private contractors such as we had in the space program, is the logical vehicle for that effort.
The discoveries thus made are adapted and used by exceptional America to benefit ALL.
They help drive the American...and the
world...economy.
The other area that does so is ENERGY.