What to do when meeting ET
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2019-08-12
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en
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Abstract
In this thesis it is researched whether humanity should adhere to Cixin Liu’s Dark Forest Theory when meeting extraterrestrials for the first time. The theory’s form is comparable to a social contract theory and was therefore compared to several classical contract theories such as those of Hobbes, Rawls, Kant, and those of Aquinas, Hobbes, Habermas, and Binmore. It became clear that Liu’s theory is worthwhile investigating. The Dark Forest theory was, with the use of game theory, deemed internally incoherent but did present challenges that current social contract theories are unable to respond to. Specifically, the challenge of the vastness of space makes communication impossible. The conclusion of this thesis is that the Dark Forest Theory should not be adhered to when meeting extraterrestrial. Additionally, civilizations should not venture into outer space because it can threaten its existence. Future research on extraterrestrials should focus on rationality and game theory’s limits and possibilities. Additionally, science fiction’s possibilities of researching what constitutes humanity’s knowledge and humanity itself should be broadened. Furthermore, science fiction should be investigated as philosophical thought experiments.
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Faculteit der Managementwetenschappen