The Fermi Paradox

Let's examine these briefly.

(1) We are alone.

This doesn't mean that there can be no other civilization -- just means we're the first. The only explanation for this, in light of the principle of mediocrity, is that there is some natural reason why civilizations were more or less prevented until "recently." Then came us. There could easily be others who follow us. This does seem to contradict the principle of mediocrity though and the idea that the Universe is more or less the same everywhere (and, by implication, over time).

(2) Civilizations are common, but there is no colonizing. Why?

  • Technological difficulties.

    Maybe it's hard.

  • Sociological considerations (they choose not to colonize).

    Maybe they don't feel like. Or, less snidely, maybe the way to become a truly advanced civilization is to lose your drive for colonization.

  • Self-destruction.

    Not very encouraging, but certainly possible.

    (3) There are colonizing civilizations that have chosen to leave us alone.

    Intriguing. Either they are not interested in us (we are too boring), or they are purposefully leaving us alone (or protecting us). This is sometimes called the zoo hypothesis, and Star Trek fans will recognize this as the often-broken Prime Directive. Lastly, civilizations might be leaving us alone until they or we recognize that we are "ready" to join the truly advanced community.


    http://www.palantir.net/2001/index.html

    Why bother with SETI in light of these solutions to the Fermi Paradox? What do you think?

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