Steven Firth - Extraterrestrial First Contact

Ph.D. candidate Steven Firth outlines a model for first contact with extraterrestrial intelligence and describes challenges in reasoning, communication and culture that could inadvertently lead to hostility. This presentation is based on his paper, “An Assay on Axioms of First Contact”. Firth also describes distal (SETI) and proximal (UAP) scenarios for first contact, and how differences in distance, technological advancement, and other key factors could potentially affect situational outcomes. He also describes the potential for a "Hobbesian Trap", and provides game-theory analysis on potential risks and benefits of a first strike by either side. In this presentation, a Hobbesian Trap can be compared to the US/USSR cold war in the 20th century, with the exception of different benefit/cost weightings in the game theory matrix describing first contact hostilities. Steven has a Bachelors and Master’s in Philosophy from the University of Lethbridge in Alberta, Canada, and for the last 6 years has been a PhD candidate in Philosophy through the University of Helsinki. Steven’s work includes research into practical applications of the Picture Theory of Disability, experience teaching philosophy, logic, and research methodologies at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology as part of the CORE Education Program, and volunteer work as an awareness advocate for cancer screening and early detection. LINKS & RESOURCES An Assay on Axioms of First Contact https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4358759 0:00 - Introduction 7:18 - Extraterrestrial Life 31:33 - Communication 48:49 - The Hobbesian Trap 1:10:36 - Axioms Of First Contact 1:34:46 - Interview & Discussion