Interstellar Ethics and the Goldilocks Evolutionary Sequence: Can We Expect ETI to Be Moral?

Abstract

Interpretations have been made of a currently narrow range of signal types that humans can record from interstellar sources, to determine if distant life forms exist. This chapter briefly surveys the types of signals now available and what they and others could reveal about distant life forms in the future. The chapter then explores the assessment of intelligent species if they visit Earth. The authors ask which observable signs could indicate self-awareness and ethical thinking, and how humans can test for the presence of ethics. A “Goldilocks Evolutionary Sequence” of neurocognitive features is presented, which can be operationalized as a plan to vet interstellar visitors and a protocol for negotiating with them. Important distinctions may point toward ethics, but if a visit to Earth occurs, will humans have the time to make them?