Hi @samve: I've opened a second account so I can engage in wonderful initiatives like this.
Of course we should explore space. Of course we should feed millions. As long as there is a market for Rolls Royce, Cartier and 100 foot yachts, we've got money for both.. As long as there is money for Trident missile systems (is that model out of date, now?), we've got money to feed millions and money to explore. Plus, of course, exploration involves an industry, and industries dependent on that industry. Education, jobs, economic growth that can be fueled by exploration. This leads to economic growth and the ability to feed millions.

There's my answer. Great question :)