Astrobioethic reflections on the search for and expansion of life in the universe
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.3989/arbor.2024.811.2751Keywords:
astrobioethics, interplanetary, multiplanetary, extraterrestrial microbial lifeAbstract
Astrobioethics is the study of the ethical implications of the search for life in the universe. In this endeavour, humans are trying to find an answer to the age-old question of whether or not we are alone in the universe. However, there are ethical challenges we must face if we ever find this answer, from what to do if we find microbial life on a planet to our attitude towards the possible detection of intelligent life. No matter what form of life it is, there will be a reaction from us, and this will not be limited to a purely technological question. Will we need to create planetary protection zones for possible extraterrestrial microbial life forms? Will we need to develop updated forms of empathy for the preventive care of extraterrestrial life? In addition, astrobioethics also addresses the issue of humanity's future in the universe, the consideration of us as a multi- and interplanetary species. Will becoming a multi-planetary species be the answer to human ethical problems? Will the most influential countries ultimately determine what interplanetary code of ethics we should develop? These and other questions reflect some of the astrobioethical reflections on the search for and expansion of life in the universe.
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