A new study based on game theory and the philosophy of Hobbes offers a different perspective on the potential outcome of a first contact with aliens. While popular culture often portrays aliens as a highly developed race hiding a threatening agenda, the study published in the journal Space Policy suggests that the first contact is more likely to involve the exchange of information and mutually beneficial cooperation.
Referring to the historical experience of mankind, the study challenges the pessimistic scenario of a dangerous encounter with aliens. It compares the potential first contact to the meeting between European colonialists and the nations of America, resulting in genocide and the destruction of civilizations. However, the study counters this analogy by suggesting that the first contact with aliens will most likely take the form of radio communication from light years away.
Using the principles of the Hobbesian Trap or Schelling dilemma, the authors argue that mutually beneficial cooperation would be the best strategy in a contact scenario. By analyzing possible scenarios, the researchers conclude that mankind would have significant information about the alien civilization. Since both sides developed in the same physical universe and overcame challenges, cooperation would likely result in the greatest mutual benefit.
The authors of the study outline three main axioms for the first contact with aliens: the possibility of communication, careful optimism, and the belief that the first contact is not a significant threat. They emphasize that interaction with aliens has the potential to bring mutual benefit.
Ultimately, the study suggests that when people trust each other and work together, the world becomes better and safer. It raises the possibility that the same principle could apply to the interaction between humans and aliens.