Part 7/11:
In examining the practicality of interstellar empires, it becomes clear that any realistic representation would entail populations numbering in the quintillions. With advancements in technology, such as megastructures capable of housing billions within a single solar system, the scale of human expansion could be even grander than depicted in current fictional works.
The Time Dilemma and Strategies for Governance
Another key issue arises from the immense passage of time within interstellar contexts. Without consistent travel and communication, governance becomes similarly fractured. By the time a fleet reaches a distant colony, changes may have accelerated beyond recognition, complicating any attempt at pacifying rebellions or enforcing laws.