Orbiting the Earth in a classroom on 'Space Station 156', History Professor Roberta Smith holographically projected the 'Why Space?' course syllabus:

1. ASI Development - A world-changing phenomenon.

2. The Allure - Startling accurate predictions dominated world discourse.

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3. Immense Energy — Historic consumption required to drive it.

4. Environmentalists Warned — Shunned by the populous.

5. Irreversible — Climate change reached a tipping point.

A student raised their hand.

"Yes?" asked Roberta.

"Professor, why couldn't the ASI be used to prevent the climate tipping point?"

Roberta paced, nodded, and smiled. "How would you react to someone asking you to starve to death?"