so I would assume that whomever has the big/bigger economic/ clout can put more into space exploration/control....hhhmmm, if they think to the future....
but what would be the catalyst for making a super power decide Space is the "next big thing?"...
What would be the advantage of putting the money into the program of space control and exploration?....I don't think there is an OBVIOUS (economic) advantage presently or IT WOULD BE HAPPENING in a bigger way than it is currently.
it would be hard to define a perameter in space...how would "your" section be determined....and unless everyone would stay (mrah ahahah, historictly NOT GONNA HAPPEN) out of your section you would be forced into defending that space.....
More Econmomy issues....not only in defending, but in technology...you will need to spend more on the technology to defend, invent more (better/bigger/stronger weapons and defense items) research etc....to what benefit........
and will it be immediate benefit to the current people or will the benefit of taking over space be to the benefit of only future generations?
I could see it happening if say some rare and "can't live without it"....product was discovered in space....Just as an example...say oil was discovered on Mars....how much would the US citizens be willing to spend to be the first one's to settle on Mars to recover the resource?....
What would we be willing to spend in cost of human life to establish control of Mars. And what would we willing to spend in money, time and life to keep control of Mars? Keeping in mind with the oil example...there will be enough to withdraw from the Middle East and put controlling interest in US hands....(hey, its my example:)
Am I digressing off the main Point?? hehehehe
Bren