How Would You Convince Someone Using Logic That Aliens Don't Exist?
Many people, including myself, keep an open mind about the existence of extraterrestrial life. However, this is often based on speculation and a lack of concrete evidence. While it is entirely possible that aliens do exist, there are logical arguments that suggest their non-existence is more probable.
The Scope of the Real World
Consider, for example, the discovery of Methanopyrus kandleri. This microorganism was first identified in 1965, residing in water at depths of 2000 meters, where the temperature is well above boiling point. If someone suggested such bacteria existed decades ago, it would have been difficult to believe. These bacteria thrive in conditions that, to the average cell biologist, sound impossible. Yet, here they are.
These microorganisms, known as thermophilic bacteriae, are just one example of life forms that exist in environments we would find unimaginable. If we expand our perspective to the vastness of the universe, the idea of alien life seems even more plausible. However, our current understanding of the universe, and the technology to explore it, leaves our quest for extraterrestrial life with a significant gap in knowledge.
The Limits of Certainty
The real world is indeed much bigger than our current understanding. Therefore, it is impossible to state with 100% certainty that anything does not exist. However, this does not mean we should pretend that any imagined concept exists. The question of aliens is undecidable based on our current knowledge, much like the age-old questions such as 'will the world end today?'.
We cannot predict the future with certainty, but our lives continue. Similarly, the lack of evidence for extraterrestrial life does not impact our daily existence. As logic dictates, we must base our beliefs on evidence and reason, not speculation.
The Impact of Unknown Realities
Even if extraterrestrial life were to exist, their non-manifestation in our reality makes them insignificant for most of us. Just as the average person may not be aware of the existence of Methanopyrus kandleri, the vast majority of us remain oblivious to the realities in the universe that may greatly influence our world.
Research and discoveries of these unknown entities can certainly impact our lives in the long run. For instance, our understanding of thermophilic bacteria might lead to advancements in various fields. In the context of aliens, any discovery would dramatically alter our understanding of the universe. But until then, the presence of such entities is a matter of theoretical speculation.
Similarly, the existence of extraterrestrial life in another galaxy is an unfathomable reality, much like the microscopic world of bacteriae. These realities operate in ways that are beyond our immediate awareness, much like the metaphorical thermophilic bacteriae in our backyard.
Therefore, while the existence of extraterrestrial life remains a fascinating hypothesis, it is crucial to approach this topic with a logical and evidence-based perspective. Until substantial evidence is found, it is more pragmatic to focus on the aspects of the universe that we can observe and understand.