From: lexfridman
The existence of extraterrestrial life is a topic that not only fascinates scientists but also philosophers. Diana Walsh Basulka, a professor of philosophy and religion, delves into the philosophical considerations of alien life, touching upon the nature of belief, truth, and reality.
The Nature of Belief and Reality
One fundamental philosophical question that arises in the context of extraterrestrial life is the nature of belief and how it aligns with objective reality. Basulka explains that belief constitutes attitudes toward something that dictates individuals’ actions, like the belief that the sun will rise tomorrow [00:03:00]. However, beliefs can be erroneous, as exemplified by the historical belief in a flat Earth [00:03:00].
Philosophers often question whether beliefs are accurate representations of what we consider objective reality. Basulka highlights the philosophy of Immanuel Kant, who posited that we can never know the thing in itself, what he termed “the numenal” [00:03:45]. This philosophical stance opens the discussion on the limitations of human perception when considering phenomena like extraterrestrial life.
Truth and Perception
Truth as a Moving Target
Truth is often seen as a moving target. Our understanding of phenomena, whether terrestrial or extraterrestrial, is continually evolving as our tools and theories improve.
According to Basulka, knowledge and experiences are mediated by our faculties and senses, which can be inherently unreliable [00:04:16]. This skepticism extends especially to phenomena that transcend human experience, such as extraterrestrial intelligence, where our understanding is limited by our technological and cognitive capabilities [00:03:00].
Belief, Myth, and Technology
The discussion of extraterrestrial life also broaches the interaction between myth, belief, and technological advancement. Basulka argues that technological innovation often reflects the mythology embedded in our collective consciousness. The belief in the possibility of interacting with alien civilizations influences technological endeavors, potentially manifesting previously impossible concepts into reality [00:01:27].
Non-Human Intelligence and Consciousness
Basulka refers to the long-standing exploration of non-human and alien life and civilization, suggesting that our interaction with non-human intelligence may primarily be with their technology, rather than the beings themselves [01:03:29]. This parallels how humans send robotic probes to explore other planets, hinting that contact with intelligent life might similarly involve interaction with technology rather than direct communication with beings.
Cultural and Historical Dimensions
The lore surrounding historical events such as the phenomenon in Roswell illustrates the intersection of myth and truth in the public’s imagination [01:52:02]. These events become cultural touchstones that serve as modern myths in the dialogue about extraterrestrial life. The philosophical exploration of these occurrences looks at how narratives become rooted in belief systems and how they affect communal and personal perspectives on extraterrestrial life.
In conclusion, the philosophical discourse surrounding the existence of alien life is intricately linked with exploring belief, reality, technology, and culture. It challenges us to consider how we perceive and interpret phenomena that sit at the edges of human understanding. The quest to discover extraterrestrial life continues to push the boundaries of science and philosophy, enticing us with the possibility that the nature of extraterrestrial life might be far more complex and mysterious than imagined.