You’re 17 years too late to use that argument in good faith. Not only is SpaceX not a monopoly (because there are many other companies you can buy launch services from in the USA) but because that wasn’t the case in 2006 when Boeing and Lockheed (with USA government consent!) created a TRUE launch monopoly by merging to create ULA (United Launch Alliance).
I’m not strictly arguing for federalization, but you’re arguing through whataboutism. And SpaceX is an effective monopoly. Otherwise we’d use other launch services at least some significant amount.
So… In your opinion, it should be allowed to operate like any normal company without restrictions? What would happen if, say, a powerful Chinese investor attempted to buy it outright?
So… In your opinion, it should be allowed to operate like any normal company without restrictions?
I can’t tell what you’re trying to say with your first sentence. Most companies DO have specific restrictions based upon their industry, environmental impact, and various forms of regulatory compliance. SpaceX isn’t an exception.
What would happen if, say, a powerful Chinese investor attempted to buy it outright?
It likely wouldn’t be allowed just like other national strategic companies. What is your point with that?
There’s a caveat. Most countries will heavily regulate access to limited resources, for example radio frequency bands. SpaceX is occupying defined orbit which means it’s perfectly reasonable to ensure society benefits from this privilege.
Remove the SpaceX name from that statement and the statement is just as crazy.
Examples:
It just isn’t our country’s way to steal a company from its owners or shareholders. Its a bit frightening you think it should be.
Most or all of your examples have meaningfully valid competitors in the space. SpaceX does not, at least not yet.
So your rationale for seizing a private company is that it is better than its competitors?
No, it’s that as an effective monopoly, it has unreasonable power over the government.
You’re 17 years too late to use that argument in good faith. Not only is SpaceX not a monopoly (because there are many other companies you can buy launch services from in the USA) but because that wasn’t the case in 2006 when Boeing and Lockheed (with USA government consent!) created a TRUE launch monopoly by merging to create ULA (United Launch Alliance).
I’m not strictly arguing for federalization, but you’re arguing through whataboutism. And SpaceX is an effective monopoly. Otherwise we’d use other launch services at least some significant amount.
So… In your opinion, it should be allowed to operate like any normal company without restrictions? What would happen if, say, a powerful Chinese investor attempted to buy it outright?
I can’t tell what you’re trying to say with your first sentence. Most companies DO have specific restrictions based upon their industry, environmental impact, and various forms of regulatory compliance. SpaceX isn’t an exception.
It likely wouldn’t be allowed just like other national strategic companies. What is your point with that?
And what if a nation bought the guy in charge? You know, like has potentially already happened with the PIF
There’s a caveat. Most countries will heavily regulate access to limited resources, for example radio frequency bands. SpaceX is occupying defined orbit which means it’s perfectly reasonable to ensure society benefits from this privilege.
Meh. Fuck all those corporate assholes.