[trechriron]

I would say yes to the first part and no to the second part. I just read through the hardcover this last week again in preparation for an upcoming game.

TS is very optimistic regarding future political struggles, the middle east, the EU, and the nations of Africa. There was a war in 2087 (IIRC) between a coalition of info-socialists and world powers, but generally, countries cooperate on space exploration/commerce and overall trade. There is still the discrepancy between 5th wave, 4th wave and the handful of 3rd wave countries. There are still dictators (a few) and countries that are "poor" with that term being relevant in comparison to early 21st century.

There is no indication that technology is going to stagnate, nor is space development going to be stunted, nor is there going to be another world war. Of course, your TS could vary from this.

The biggest existential threat in my estimation would be the mini-black holes. Depending on how that turns out, it could spell horrible disaster or incredible technological discovery.

I chose to use TS as the setting for my "expanse-like" game because of how neutral it is. Tons of great detail without any meta-plot or dooms-day device. Lots of seeds for adventure. Lots of ideas for bringing the setting to life.

I highly recommend Changing Times, Shell Tech and Bioroid Bazaar. Great summary updates to 4e, and CT has great advice for GMing the setting. In my opinion, these PDFs turn TS into the same style of ready-to-play supplements like DF, AtE, and MH.