As I understand it there are two problems with the idea of having space stations in geosynchronous orbit tethered to the earth with a real physical line, to which can be attached an elevator, or that itself serves as one.
The first problem is a cable material of sufficient strength to do this. This is a pretty obvious problem and may not be doable, in which case the subject is closed. I think probably it is doable in the near future.
The other problem is the radiation exposure people riding such an elevator would suffer. In a rocket the exposure is a few seconds; on such an elevator it might be hours. (The earth is surrounded by radiation belts of deadly stuff -- out in geosynchronous orbit the radiation problem is manageable, but closer in it could be a killer).
Of course shielding would be needed, without adding too much weight, I suppose.
Now imagine what might be possible out there with almost unlimited room for anything. Huge multi-billion-people cities, self-sustaining for the most part, utilizing solar energy and providing each inhabitant lots of living space. Gravity would be from rotating the cities, one living near the rim, but with trips to the hub for zero-gravity activities available. Kinda like a huge luxury liner in the end, but with enough people to make a rich and varied culture work.
I can see problems getting the raw materials necessary -- we have already exploited earth quite a bit, although much remains -- but probably other objects would be mined.
I think in spite of my perception of the present world as fundamentally corrupt, it will progress to a much better, even glorious, future, in spite of this. I guess I'm an optimist.
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