“Another factor encouraging my positive attitude about
problem solving was World War II when the U.S. spent billions of dollars
for weapons of mass destruction in the Manhattan Project. Cost was no
object and it was one of the largest and best-financed projects
undertaken to that date. I realized the same energies that went into the
Manhattan Project could be channeled to improve and update our way of
life, and to achieve and maintain the optimal symbiotic relationship
between nature and humankind. If we are willing to spend that amount of
money, resources, and human lives in times of war, we must ask why we
don’t commit equal resources to improving the lives of everyone and
anticipating humane needs for the future in times of peace. 

When
scientists were called upon to solve problems of a military nature, the
answers were immediately forthcoming. This demonstrated to me the
ability of science and technology to solve problems when properly
organized and funded, but it is shameful that these methods are not
applied to solving social problems on a global scale. In my work I am
not attempting to predict the future. I am only pointing out what is
possible with the intelligent application and humane use of science and
technology. This does not call for scientists to manage society. What I
suggest is applying the methods of science to the social system for the
benefit of human kind and the environment.”

RIP Jacque Fresco
(March 13, 1916 – May 18, 2017)