by Elton Gahr

Created on: June 03, 2009

The search for extra terrestrial intelligence is one of the most important quests that have ever been attempted by mankind. The question of whether we are alone in the universe and possibly even the meaning of life may be in our grasp. Our understanding of the universe could explode exponentially and everything could change and this question of what would happen if suddenly we knew we weren't alone has been explored in numerous science fiction films.

The most common way to discover extra terrestrial intelligence in the movie is to have it invade. Movies like "War of the Worlds", "Independence Day", "The Day the Earth Stood Still" and numerous others have answered the question of whether we are alone in the universe with the image of ships attacking, and while this makes for fine media it is not the most likely. Any alien species able to travel interstellar distances would have little reason for bothering us and even less trouble destroying us if they chose to do so.

The second type of search for extra terrestrial life involves us going there. This is best exemplified in Star Trek, but in this type of show much of the impact of the discovery is lost. These characters already know alien life exists, they are simply looking for more.

The third type, and the rarer is the more realistic examination of the search for extra terrestrial intelligence. The best example of this is the movie "Contact" written by Carl Sagan. This is the most accurate portrayal of SETI on film and carefully examines what might happen if we got a message.

Among other things one of the most important points in the movie is that the message is not quickly or easily understood. The aliens have sent a primer with the message and eventually the scientists are able to discover the keys to understanding this message. And even once they have finally decipher it the trouble has not ended. The fear of the unknown fills this movie, as well as the joy of discovery.

There is no doubt that finding alien life in the universe would change humanity forever. New technology and understandings of the universe would be only the beginning. Our culture would have to change, the petty differences between us would likely fade away. The concept of racism might seem a bit silly when faced with an actual different race, and while Hollywood largely chooses to ignore these messages and questions in exchange for cool looking special effects the questions are being asked and if you look you can find them.

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