4 ms·
I don't want to discuss whether your pessimistic outlook is more realistic than an optimistic outlook. However, I'd like to point out that SETI isn't misguided
by nhaehnle 15y ago
I don't want to discuss whether your pessimistic outlook is more realistic than an optimistic outlook. However, I'd like to point out that SETI isn't misguided in any case.
Heck, if your pessimistic outlook is correct, SETI is even more important, because it might provide the only early warning of an incoming invasion. That may not help in the end, but it's better than nothing.
- ericb 15y agoI could be wrong on this point, but isn't the underlying assumption with SETI that when we listen that we will also respond?
- nhaehnle 15y agoWell, it's called Search for Extra-Terrestrial Intelligence, not Communication with Extra-Terrestrial Intelligence. At least right now they aren't sending anything, and I'm sure there will be plenty of time to discuss this issue before and if they ever find anything. I agree with you that it makes sense to be careful. Sending high-powered directed radio signals before we really know what we're dealing with does sound like a bad idea.