With improved telescopes and detection methods, astronomers are finding more and more planets orbiting distant stars. But most of them agree, the chances of finding a planet with complex life, like that we have on Earth, are quite small.
While the sheer immensity of the universe might improve the chances of finding Earth-like planets, think of the odds of finding one with inhabitants similar to those on our world. A population that: doesn’t take care of individuals who need taking care of; endures mass gun murders every day, with very few government leaders doing anything to prevent them; is allowing extensive damage to its planet’s vital ecosystems, imperiling all life; has engaged in many devastating wars killing and maiming millions of its inhabitants; has developed weapons of mass destruction that can cause extinction to all life on our planet.
The chances of discovering an Earth-like planet are infinitesimally small. The odds of finding a civilization like ours are even smaller — staggering. Yes, we are unique in the universe. But not in a way, I believe, that our galactic neighbors, if they are out there, would approve.
— Frank E. Baker
Eagle River
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