We tend to imagine alien First Contact as a matter
of what aliens will do to us. We usually ignore the bigger question: what will
we do in response to the aliens? Aside from the Hollywood cliché war
spectaculars, there is actually some thought that should be put into the
subject. Why? The human reaction is the only thing we could control in an
extraterrestrial First Contact event.
I’ll avoid the hostile, self-defense scenarios and
instead focus this piece on a particular scenario. What do we do if friendly aliens
say hello? There are a myriad of possible ways that it could occur. But
generally, let’s say it is high information, direct First Contact. That
basically means we have the ability to have a conversation with the extraterrestrials.
To do such, in the context of our current knowledge of science, would require
that the aliens or a probe perhaps, be in our celestial neighborhood.
I’ve written plenty of blogs on this topic, but I now
believe there is one important element that I have left out: the need for a
planetary call to action. To prepare for such an event we need to recognize
that each and every one of us would have some basic responsibilities in First
Contact. You may say, no not me…that’s something for the scientists and
politicians to worry about. As important as the role of scientists and world
leaders would be in First Contact, your role, as a member of your
society, is also quite important. Why? It comes down to the dynamics of reaction. I
think that scientists, world leaders, military leaders, the news media,
religious leaders, corporate leaders and institutional leaders will all have
important roles. But technically, all of those people are supposed to represent
you, in one way or another. They will certainly be following public reaction
closely and taking cues. Mass hysteria will provoke certain reactions. A calm, thoughtful citizenry will bring about more measured responses.
Each human needs to realize that they would have a
role to play in a First Contact event. What would we need to do? Here’s a short
list:
Focus on facts: it would be easy for us to be scared
and let our imaginations run wild in the initial hours, days and weeks after
First Contact. We need to stick to the facts.
Beware of rumors and fiction: even if we can control
our own imaginations, there will be those who will not be able to. They will
take to the internet, and anywhere else they can spout off, to spread rumors
and outright lies.
Beware of scare tactics by fringe groups: some
people will spread rumors and fiction to further their own particular agenda.
Beware of inaccuracies. And remember that the most dangerous inaccuracies
are the ones that have a grain of truth.
Think critically, act thoughtfully: evaluate the
source of whatever information you are receiving. Just because it’s a relative
or someone you usually trust, doesn’t mean that they are correct.
Listen to scientists, but realize that scientists
have opinions as well. Trust research based opinions.
We owe this to future generations. This is a
tremendous responsibility for those of us in this bridge generation…those who
knew life before first contact, those who witnessed first contact and helped
to set the path forward. That path would be critical for the human race in the
wake of First Contact.
I also suggest a call to action for the media,
scientists, civic leaders, corporations and institutions. It’s quite similar:
Don’t allow speculation to run rampant.
Don’t chase rumors just because it will boost your
ratings. This is one of those times that the media will need to realize a role
so much more important than the daily competition. It’s a media reaction we
often see in the United States in the immediate wake of disaster. We need the
sober, cautious and thoughtful media that we saw in the days after the 9/11
attacks in the United States. And in extended First Contact scenario we would need that media for some time.
Explain and provide perspective.
Calm the public and provide reassurances.
Be cautious.
Be thoughtful.
Listen to scientists, but realize that scientists
have opinions as well. Trust research based opinions.
Don’t try to control first contact for national or
other self-interest.
Am I expecting too much out of humans? I don’t think
so. We’re extraordinarily adaptable. If we pull together and use our heads,
First Contact could be an amazing experience. If we don’t, the aliens may be
the least of our worries.