From: Spudboy100@aol.com
Date: Wed Aug 27 2003 - 23:10:28 MDT
Samantha:
<< 100 years ago we did not have the 
knowledge to even produce dependable electricity or even have electricity in 
many parts of the country.   Battery technology is an important aspect of 
electrics.  Battery technology did not do much new until relatively 
recently.  
Light weight materials are also a plus.   It is hardly a worthwhile argument 
among extropians to put down something just because it hasn't already been 
done!  >>
I do not share your boundless optimism (which is an Extropian trait) 
concerning the development of robust alternate technology. After seeing what little 
has progressed since the 1st oil shock of 1973, I am very cynical. The reason is 
that I have no patience anymore with technological dreams that never seem to 
come true. There are always people (sometimes myself) who predict great 
technical advances, but these developments never make it to either the marketplace, 
or even as a demonstration project (technically doable but still too 
expensive). 
So, I am basically saying I am tired of being deceived. People have waited a 
long time for these technologies to mature to the marketplace, and they ain't. 
By the way, I hope You are right and these cars, generators, solar cells, and 
reactors jump on the scene, in defiance of my personal pessimism. 
Mitch
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