It is a truism that the structure of a society is basically determined by its technology. Not in an absolute sense-there may be totally different cultures using identical tools-but the tools settle the possibilities; you can't have interstellar trade without spaceships. A race limited to a single planet, possessing a high knowledge of mechanics but with its basic machines of industry and war requiring a large capital investment, will inevitably tend toward collectivism under one name or another. Free enterprise needs elbow room.
Poul AndersonAt each stage...entirely new laws, concepts and generalizations are necessary, requiring inspiration and creativity to just as great a degree as in the previous one.
Poul AndersonWhy do people in this age think their own impoverished lives must be the norm of the universe?
Poul AndersonIf we knew exactly what to expect throughout the Solar System, we would have no reason to explore it.
Poul Anderson