Actually, here are some reasons I though of for colonizing Antarctica:
1. global warming, and possible collapse of civilization due to outstripping of resources and internal moral collapse. There’s a strong possibility that the earth is going to be made into a hell in 50 years. Climate systems fluctuate causing massive crop failure; engendering war and economic collapse. Possible nuclear war.
In that event, most continents might even be made inhabitable, overrun by gangs of mutants and dictators intent on extermination, looting and pillaging. Except Antarctica. An Antarctic civilization would probably ride out the storm… and its citizens would be forced to depend on technology for their very survival. Nuclear winter? no problem. New ice age? no problem. Furthermore, they would be protected from outside invasion by apocalyptic barbarian dictators and nuclear attack (being naturally underground).
The Antarctic civilization could then function as a bubble of civilization, (preserving culture and scientific technology, must like the Foundation in Azimov’s novel) that might develop in its self sufficiency for a hundred years or so after the apocalypse, then go forth and reconquer the world with its super-advanced AI, cyborg and robot warriors with death rays, or just zap the mutant dictators like ants from outer space, using a giant laser.
2. Resources, create wealth, create civilization. Antarctica is rich in one natural resource; freshwater. It may become more valuable in the future. And who knows whats under the ice? Antarctica was once a warm continent, teeming with life. Under all that ice is an entire frozen, ancient world.
3. Road into space, and the sea. A technological, space/seafaring society could crystallize and hone its skills in Antarctica. How would living on Mars, or in sea colonies, be any different, except that the environment would be a tad more demanding? An Antarctic civilization would have to learn the skills of self-sufficiency, entirely producing their own resources and energy needed to survive. They would need to rely heavily on technology, and have a close-knit, technological and intellectual culture.
The possibilities for social progress are astounding. People are shaped by struggle; the people who would go to Antarctica wouldn’t just be going there for material gain (at first)… much like the Puritans who colonized America, they would be going there to create ‘a city on a hill’ and live in greater freedom away from the center of government.
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