I see 2 huge problems with the empirical proof part. Wait-- make that 3.
Personally, I've had my empirical proof. The first problem is that it's so transient that "catching" it with witnesses and physical traces is difficult.
But more generally, the second problem is that any intelligent life that may be visiting us seems hellbent on not cooperating with that "leaving proof" thing-- and that may not be accidental.
Finally, because of the severe bias against the mere possibility that WE could actually be visited by intelligent life from elsewhere-- even the proof that IS found... is ignored. One of the biggest problems those who come into contact with this intelligent life and get proof (stuff from ships, implants left in bodies, etc.) is that NO scientist will DARE to look at it due to fear of their careers being utterly ruined for EVEN LOOKING. Not kidding.
So-- I think to get past those "empirical proof" blocks we'll need something big that's both publicly shared and undeniable. Which, to the minds of most, means a "show" apparently. An actual alien, dead or alive, would help. A ship that lands in the middle of a city. That type of thing.
I don't blame you, though, for holding the opinion you do. It would be mine had I not had so many encounters of my own (with, at least once, physical proof-- that I didn't show to anyone, as MY life and privacy were more important than facing a hostile public/scientific community!)
no subject
Personally, I've had my empirical proof. The first problem is that it's so transient that "catching" it with witnesses and physical traces is difficult.
But more generally, the second problem is that any intelligent life that may be visiting us seems hellbent on not cooperating with that "leaving proof" thing-- and that may not be accidental.
Finally, because of the severe bias against the mere possibility that WE could actually be visited by intelligent life from elsewhere-- even the proof that IS found... is ignored. One of the biggest problems those who come into contact with this intelligent life and get proof (stuff from ships, implants left in bodies, etc.) is that NO scientist will DARE to look at it due to fear of their careers being utterly ruined for EVEN LOOKING. Not kidding.
So-- I think to get past those "empirical proof" blocks we'll need something big that's both publicly shared and undeniable. Which, to the minds of most, means a "show" apparently. An actual alien, dead or alive, would help. A ship that lands in the middle of a city. That type of thing.
I don't blame you, though, for holding the opinion you do. It would be mine had I not had so many encounters of my own (with, at least once, physical proof-- that I didn't show to anyone, as MY life and privacy were more important than facing a hostile public/scientific community!)