Explore the fascinating world of extraterrestrial life in this thought-provoking panel discussion from the World Science Festival. Delve into the complexities of defining life, the challenges of searching for alien beings, and the potential forms they might take. Join experts Lisa Kaltenegger, Caleb Scharf, Susan Schneider, and Sara Walker, moderated by astronaut Nicole Stott, as they tackle questions about the parameters for identifying life on other planets, the Fermi Paradox, and the role of artificial intelligence in the future of life. Examine the importance of the search for alien life to humanity, the concept of the "Great Filter," and the potential lessons we could learn from extraterrestrial civilizations. This hour-long program, part of the BIG IDEAS SERIES, offers a comprehensive exploration of the cutting-edge science and philosophical questions surrounding the search for life beyond Earth.
Overview
Syllabus
- Film about the imaginative search for alien life
- Introduction to the program by astronaut Nicole Stott
- Introduction of participants
- What is the definition of life?
- How will we find signs of life elsewhere in the universe?
- What are the parameters for looking for life on other planets?
- What should the probes on Mars be looking for to find life?
- The Fermi Paradox, where is everybody?
- Have aliens avoided humans because we're too boring?
- Can we use information theory to look for life in the universe?
- Why is looking for alien life important to humankind?
- Will life in the future be AI, should we be looking for other AI in space?
- The "Great Filter"
- Is artificial intelligence alive?
- Is evolution the strongest force in the universe, how will it shape the future?
- What lessons could humankind learn from the successes and failures of other alien species in the universe?
- Why should we care about finding life elsewhere in the universe?
Taught by
World Science Festival
