Who Owns the Moon?

A. C. Grayling's Who Owns the Moon? tackles the pressing question of space ownership and the responsibilities of superpowers and corporations.

In Who Owns the Moon?, A. C. Grayling delves into the complex and often contentious issue of ownership in space. As superpowers and corporations vie for control over celestial bodies, he poses a critical question: who truly owns these resources? The moon, rich in materials essential for modern technology, has become a focal point in this new Space Race. Grayling's exploration extends beyond mere ownership; he examines the responsibilities that come with it, urging a reflection on what these entities owe to Earth and its inhabitants.

Grayling draws parallels from historical contexts, investigating how concepts of ownership have evolved from feudal common land to the unclaimed territories of Antarctica. He highlights the concept of terra nullius, where land is deemed unowned and thus free for exploitation. Through this lens, he discusses the dangers of the tragedy of the commons, where shared resources are overused by individuals prioritizing personal gain over collective benefit. This historical perspective enriches the discussion, making it clear that the issues at hand are not merely futuristic but deeply rooted in our past.

Ultimately, Who Owns the Moon? advocates for a new global consensus that recognizes the rights of all Earth's inhabitants. Grayling's compelling arguments call for a rethinking of how we approach ownership in space, emphasizing the need for cooperation and shared stewardship of the universe beyond our planet.