Contact with Extraterrestrial Intelligence and Multilateral Preparedness

Kelvin F. Long n/

jbis-078-04-0116

DOI https://doi.org/10.59332/jbis-078-04-0116

As humanity reaches further out into the Cosmos through our long-range astronomical instruments and robotic probes, our presence is sure to be noticed by any hypothetical extraterrestrial intelligence (ETI) that may also exist. Yet the development of our technology is not without complications given the potential dual use. Since it involves large powers and energies, this especially includes that any space propulsion machine can also be turned into a weapon. If ETI does exist then they will surely be mindful of how we use this technology and attempt to gauge whether we will bring peace and prosperity to any life in the Universe, or modes of destruction. Given this scenario, it is reasonable to consider that any civilisation that reaches a certain level will reach a point where they will be either permitted to continue in their advance outwards, or potentially face stagnation by clandestine means. This may result in various types of containment scenarios which are discussed. It is argued that since within decades we are likely nearing this point of paradigm shift in space technology, the monitoring of our civilisation should be expected currently. We should prepare for the eventuality that we will either be greeted by intelligence from another world or forced to be restricted within a permanent zoo that constrains us to the Solar System. Preparing for this, such as through reforms of institutions like the United Nations, should be a key component of our nation state relationships through a moral and legitimate multilateral approach to problem solving..

Keywords: Extraterrestrial Contact, Zoo Hypothesis, United Nations