The Paradox of Progress: Humanity's Struggle With Conflict in the 21st Century

Universal healthcare coverage for every person on the planet is estimated to cost around $200 billion annually. This is a fraction of the military budget, yet it represents a critical investment that could save millions of lives. According to the United Nations, universal access to quality education could cost approximately $39 billion annually.

- INDIRA VASHISHTA CARENA

In the 21st century, humanity stands on the precipice of unprecedented technological advancement. Remarkable feats have been achieved, from landing rovers on Mars to developing artificial intelligence capable of analyzing vast amounts of data in seconds. The power of the internet has been harnessed, connecting billions of people across the globe. Yet, despite these advancements, one fundamental aspect of human behavior remains unchanged: the propensity for conflict.

As the world marvels at its ability to explore the cosmos and innovate in various fields, a sobering reality must be confronted: humans continue to fight over land and religion, often leading to devastating consequences. With ample land and resources available, one cannot help but wonder why these disputes persist and how much money is squandered on warfare that could otherwise be directed towards the betterment of humanity.

Global military expenditures have reached staggering heights. In recent years, annual military spending has exceeded $1.9 trillion. This figure includes costs associated with active military operations, research and development of new weapons, and maintenance of existing military infrastructure. Countries spend billions on defense in a world that theoretically has ample resources to address pressing social issues such as poverty, healthcare, and education.

Universal healthcare coverage for every person on the planet is estimated to cost around $200 billion annually. This is a fraction of the military budget, yet it represents a critical investment that could save millions of lives. According to the United Nations, universal access to quality education could cost approximately $39 billion annually. Education is a powerful tool for social change, yet it remains underfunded compared to military expenditures.