Aliens, if Existing, Could Potentially Assume Leadership Roles
In a groundbreaking paper titled "'First in, Last out' solution to the Fermi Paradox," Alexander Berezin, a Russian theoretical physicist, offers an intriguing solution to one of the most enduring mysteries in the field of astrobiology: the Fermi Paradox.
The Fermi Paradox, named after physicist Enrico Fermi, poses a question about the lack of observed intelligent extraterrestrial life despite the vastness of the universe and the presence of seemingly habitable planets. Berezin's hypothesis addresses this conundrum by suggesting that the first civilization to achieve interstellar travel and advanced technology invariably becomes the dominant or controlling force in the galaxy.
This dominance prevents other emerging civilizations from becoming detectable or expanding in a way that's noticeable to us. In simpler terms, the earliest spacefaring civilization effectively controls or "locks down" the universe or at least their part of it, remaining the “last out” — the final and enduring civilization.
Berezin argues that this dominance suppresses or eliminates competing signals or expansion, explaining why we don't observe other civilizations. He likens this phenomenon to a "galactic bottleneck" where only one civilization maintains dominance, and either others never rise or are absorbed/blocked.
The implications of Berezin's hypothesis are profound. Any civilization reaching interstellar travel faces a critical juncture: to survive long-term, it must either become the “first in, last out,” asserting control and preventing rivals, or it will be prevented from expanding significantly by an earlier civilization.
If Berezin's theory is correct, it could mean that we might avoid being decimated by external advanced civilizations or space robots. However, it also predicts a future for our civilization that is worse than extinction, with humanity potentially becoming the dominant force in the universe, eradicating or assimilating any competition.
Berezin expresses hope that he is wrong about his theory. He invokes the anthropic principle in his conclusion, suggesting that our existence might be a fluke, allowing us to be the first to arrive at a certain stage and potentially the last to leave.
It's important to note that Berezin's paper does not suggest that we are currently threatened by space robots or advanced civilizations, as we exist. However, it does highlight the potential dangers that could arise as we progress technologically and potentially reach interstellar capabilities.
Berezin's idea aligns with Frank J. Tipler's 1980s paper "Extraterrestrial Intelligent Beings do not Exist," but with a slight twist. While Tipler argued that the universe is likely empty of intelligent life, Berezin suggests that the current conditions of the universe allow for human existence, leading him to conclude that we may be the first to arrive at a certain stage and potentially the last to leave.
In conclusion, Berezin's "first in, last out" hypothesis provides a fascinating perspective on the Fermi Paradox and the potential future of civilizations. As we continue to explore the universe and advance technologically, understanding this hypothesis could prove crucial in shaping our approach to interstellar exploration and the potential encounters we may have with other civilizations.
Science reveals that one of the most enduring mysteries in astrobiology, the Fermi Paradox, might be explained by the dominance of the first civilization to achieve interstellar travel and advanced technology. In this regard, space-and-astronomy and technology play crucial roles in shaping the future of civilizations, potentially leading to dominance or extinction.
