Given the initial annual cost of war (see cost of war) is approximately $7,238.25 billion, we explore the scenario where this cost decreases by 1% every year for 80 years. This decrease reflects potential efficiencies, peacekeeping successes, and the reallocation of resources towards more productive and peaceful endeavors. Here's how the calculations unfold:
Total Cost with Decrease: We calculate the total cost over 80 years, taking into account the 1% annual decrease. This involves summing up the cost for each year, where each subsequent year's cost is 1% less than the previous year's.
Total Cost without Decrease: For comparison, we calculate what the total cost would have been if it remained constant at $7,238.25 billion per year over 80 years.
Cumulative Savings: The difference between the total cost without the decrease and the total cost with the decrease gives us the cumulative savings over 80 years.
Per Capita Savings: To determine the impact on an individual level, we divide the cumulative savings by the global population of 7.8 billion.
By reducing the annual cost of war by a modest 1% annually over the course of 80 years, the global community could save $179 trillion, translating to almost $23,000 in savings per person.
For the treaty that proposes this reallocation, see the 1% Treaty.