Alien - Philosophical Concept | Alexandria
Alien: A term designating that which is foreign, unfamiliar, or otherwise external to a given frame of reference, often sparking both fascination and unease. Commonly associated with extraterrestrial life, the concept extends into domains far beyond the cosmos, challenging our understanding of self, other, and the very boundaries of reality. Is "alien" simply a label for the unknown, or does it signify something fundamentally distinct from our own existence?
The notion of the alien, understood in its broadest sense, can be traced back to the earliest recorded encounters between disparate cultures. References to "barbarians" in ancient Greek texts, such as Herodotus' Histories (c. 440 BC), reveal an early awareness of those existing outside the Hellenic sphere, perceived as different in language, custom, and often considered lesser. During the great Roman era, this icon was the "Barbarian," that force of nature that would eventually bring down the Empire. The great thinkers from this time - such as Marcus Aurelius - reflected on these people from a position of superiority. Yet beneath the chronicles of conquest and categorization, a persistent thread of curiosity and the potential for re-evaluation and change lingered. But the alien need not be human. The philosophical project of defining humankind begins with a consideration of that which humans transcend or are beyond.
Throughout history, interpretations of the alien have evolved, reflecting shifting societal anxieties and aspirations and shaping ideas of the moral philosophy of humanity. The rise of scientific rationalism during the Enlightenment brought a new perspective. The alien, now a potential inhabitant of distant worlds, became a subject of scientific inquiry and speculation. Influenced by figures like Immanuel Kant and his moral principle of ethics, "alien" was no longer viewed as inherently hostile or inferior. Rather, the alien became symbolic of unexplored possibilities, challenging humanity’s place in the universe and prompting existentialist crises. Contemporary science fiction has embraced the idea, using the alien as a canvas for exploring themes of colonialism, cultural relativism, bias in decision making, and the very definition of consciousness, inviting us to contemplate complex moral dilemmas. The "wason test" and other areas of moral psychology and cognitive science, such as the "trolley problem," are applicable to the exploration of "first contact" and the issues that might arise.
Today, the concept of the alien continues to exert a powerful influence on the cultural landscape, from our fascination with space exploration to our growing awareness of the “other” within our own societies. As AI begins to rapidly change technology, it is no longer about simply exploring "out there." The alien is also a mirror, reflecting our hopes, fears, and our evolving understanding of what it means to be human in an ever-expanding universe, challenging us to confront our cognitive biases and embrace the unknown. In an era defined by technological advancement and increasing connectivity, the alien serves as a stark reminder of the vastness of existence and the enduring mystery of what lies beyond our current comprehension, both out there, and in here. What will be the next iteration of Alien in our history?