How to respond to alien contact? Scientists float a survey
Despite scouring the night skies for decades, we haven't discovered a tiny bit of evidence proving the existence of life beyond Earth. The search still continues, but a group of scientists wants to know what the human race would do if an alien species chooses to make contact. They have launched a survey seeking public opinion on the delicate matter. Here's all about it.
Survey seeking opinion on alien life discovery, first contact
The news of alien discovery or first contact (whenever it comes) could witness varied reactions. Some could panic and worry about humanity's impending end, while others could be excited/curious about the discovery. Now, to get a better idea of the public's attitude, researchers from the UK Seti Research Network (UKSRN) have launched a survey asking various questions about alien discovery/contact.
Questions asked in the survey
The survey throws a number of questions, including "Do you think that it is worth searching for extra-terrestrial intelligence?", "What form do you expect this life to take?", and what would you do and how you will feel if alien life signals are ever detected.
Responses will define ground rules for response plan
On the basis of the responses gathered from this survey, the researchers plan to set the ground rules for the situation of alien discovery. They say that the feedback will help them define how the news of alien discovery should be shared with the public, how they will react to the news and what reply should be issued in response.
Alien discovery affect people, which makes their opinion necessary
"There is absolutely no procedure enshrined in international law on how to respond to a signal from an alien civilization," astronomer Martin Dominik from University of St Andrews told The Guardian. "We want to hear people's views. The consequences affect more people than just scientists."
Questions about credible news sources also asked
Among other things, the survey also quizzes the public about what they would consider a credible source for the news of alien life discovery. The responses gathered through section could help scientists define the right mode of delivering such news to the public. This would be especially critical considering the rise of fake news and conspiracy theories revolving around aliens.
