Description
Moving beyond the “Extractivist model” of resource utilization will not only require a new form of space governance, but it will also require multi-faceted epistemological world view. Moving away from the model of nature as “resource” to more open and diverse conception of the universe, one that is more closely assigned to, what the Zapatistas call, “A world in which many worlds are possible.” For such a thing to exist, a radical reshaping of norms of governance and economic standards must have to take place, “more resources” is not the answer, but rather a more equitable and fair distribution of resources, a world order that situates humans as nature rather than above it and commitment to future justice. Addressing the challenges of space related governance on both national and international levels will be essential to this re-imagining that moves beyond not just the extractivist model but also beyond US military hegemony which structurally supports and benefits from genocidal colonial practices. Those involved in space exploration must first come to terms with the historic injustices and unequable governance practices in which the space industry is built upon so that the future need not replicate or continue violent activities. The very foundational values of the extractivist model are not conducive to any future in space or on Earth as those values are exploitative, colonial, and narrow.
