First Contact: Defining an Ethical Framework for Human-Alien Relations

Imagine standing face-to-face with an advanced alien civilization that has colonized nearly the entire galaxy. They extend an invitation for Earth to join the galactic community—but on what ethical grounds should our two species interact? In my latest post, I explore the ideal ethical theory to guide this unprecedented relationship. Would you choose utilitarianism, deontology, or something entirely new? Read on to discover my take!

If extraterrestrials invited human beings to join a galactic community, Kantianism would be the best ethical theory to lead our engagement with them in my opinion. I feel so because it centers on treating all rational creatures as moral equals, and its call for universal moral laws will ensure equity and uniformity, which would be essential when engaging with an organism so foreign to us. The Categorical Imperative also deters both species from being treated as a mere tool, which will ensure cooperation and trust. I have also taken a moment to consider other theories, utilitarianism's emphasis on results might condone suffering in the interest of the "greater good," potentially resulting in exploitation or morally complex situations. Social contract theory, pragmatic as it is, is based on agreement—a feat considering probable differences of power and knowledge between our species. Rule utilitarianism, despite taking long-term consequences into account, fails to give us the same level of consistency or definition as Kantian principles when dealing with difficult, unprecedented situations. Kantianism provides us with a firm basis for equitable and respectful interspecies cooperation.