Degradation, in the sense of the practical disappearance of material resources that sustain our industry, would mean that we would have no technology left, but theoretical science would become our priority (anyone who thinks that theoretical science doesn't offer much should look at the theory of relativity). Sooner or later, we will develop a technology that allows us to solve the problem of resource scarcity, crime based on material needs, diseases, and so on.
Degradation, in the sense of the practical disappearance of material resources that sustain our industry, would mean that we would have no technology left, but theoretical science would become our priority (anyone who thinks that theoretical science doesn't offer much should look at the theory of relativity). Sooner or later, we will develop a technology that allows us to solve the problem of resource scarcity, crime based on material needs, diseases, and so on.