<p>Hey guys, I'm self-studying AP Eng Lang, so I'm pretty much just doing the practice exams. I wrote a synthesis essay (only part of it is posted to not bored you guys to death) for the 2009 topic about space exploration. I'm hoping you guys would take a look at it and give some constructive criticism or a score 1-9. I would really really really appreciate it, and thanks in advance!</p>
<pre><code>Space exploration has not always been a measure of a country's technological development. In fact, it has only ben in the recent decades that a fascination for space travel has stemmed in the hearts of people worldwide. Although the ability of the human race to transcent the "final frontier" is laudable, in reality, several consequences ensue. If space eploration continues to advance in the future, the costs-- economically and environmentally--that we as a human race have to pay are inevitable.
Perhaps the primary critism of space travel is the funding it receives. Of course, by the extent of advanced technology and man power needed, putting man into space is quite costly. So where does money come from? None other than from taxpayers, who are obligd to pour their hard-earned salaries into an experience that the vast majority of them cannot even be a part of. Even astronauts themselves realize that the "view from 10000 miles is exclusive..." (Source G). In addition, it has been revealed that 17 billion dollars are given to the Nasa (Source E). It is true that in the greater scheme of things, 17 billion dollars is not a fortune; nonetheless, how is it justified taht citizens have to pay for the privileges of space exploration?
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<p>The issue of money may seem trivial when faced with the even more daunting issue of ethics and stewardship. The human race hardly has a "good track record in protecting our planet home" (Source E). We exploit that world, its resources, and other living beings as if we are its owners, instead of its respectful tenants. Instead of trying to expand our physical horizons with space travel, our main priority right now should be to make a better place with what have-- Earth. In fact, dwelving into other may put species native to htem at risk. Here, the issue of ethics comes into the picture. As Source E points out, our extraterrestrial endeavors shouldn't be exploited to merely serve the human race.
People can debate over money and ethics, but an issue that is likely to put everyone in unanimity is the risk of hazardous....</p>