On Mature Earth

  When people advocate for human colonization of Mars, they try to help others understand it in terms of how it benefits Earth. Mostly, because that's the only way they feel they can make the case for going. The thought process, in turn, from listeners often involves perceiving the arguments made as explanations for how Mars might be considered "superior" to Earth by the would-be settlers.

  That's a fine position to take, assuming your intention is only to prioritize planets. It's important, as advocates for humanity, that we keep in mind that the priority is never about Mars itself. It's about explaining how colonization is best for humanity. Here's the truth that most proponents of colonization can't bring themselves to admit to Terraphiles: The fact is Mars will be, perhaps always, inferior to Earth in terms of providing for humanity materially.

  The problem with explaining the merit of Mars to a Terran is it's a little like trying to explain the merits of parenthood to the first and only human being, who must also reproduce asexually. There is a cost to the parent, and the fact is that the child will be at first (and perhaps always) inferior by comparison.

  We must decide whether reproduction is necessary, based on whether we value the future of life, but without any frame of reference for what multiple humanized planets would be like. That said, we should also consider the dividends paid by a unique relationship which, one might speculate, could outweigh the perceived cost to the parent.

  Mother Earth is really a misnomer. As we are, in effect, the living Earth, it would be more accurate to refer to the planet as "Mature Earth". It won't be a mother until it gives rise to a child beyond itself. A more honest argument therefore for Terran humanity to give rise to an Aresian humanity is the wonder of parenthood.

  Yes, infant Mars will be ugly and useless for a good while, but if Terrans give Mars a chance, they might be surprised how relieved they are for Mars's presence in Earth's golden years. If nothing else, as for all parents, we can bet our lives would never be the same.