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Extraterrestrials have long been a favored topic of conversation among geeks and scholars alike, but what happens when alien life extends beyond finding water on mars, and becomes alien inhabitation on Earth? Assuming they are well-intentioned and of the same functioning level as most humans, extraterrestrials should be accepted as a part of society, establish citizenship to receive equal rights, and possible be considered to be people.

Should extraterrestrial be considers people, animals, or just plain aliens? The answer to this question lies entirely in the genetic make up, functionality level, and appearance of the galactic beings. Some believe that, " The extraterrestrial will be considered a legal animal by default" (Freitas. Legal Rights of Extraterrestrials), however the title of animal can most likely be ruled out of the equation, as any creature with the ability to travel through space must be as intelligent, if not more, as any human. Humans, however, are not always remembered for their fair treatment of others. In America, slavery was accepted as reasonable and slaves were not viewed as entire people, but rather as property. In certain remote third world nations, these practices are still justified today (Miller. Science, Ethics, and Moral Status). Assuming extraterrestrials are not a, "political racial, or psychological menace" (Fitting. Science Fiction Criticism in France), they must receive the same treatment as citizens of whichever nation they have made their home. In addition, if these unearthly beings possess the same physical appearance of Earthly people, there is no reason other members of the society need to be told of their extraterrestrial neighbors, as it may possibly cause unnecessary prejudice. It seems fitting, however, that the extraterrestrial should decide whether or not he or she desires to masquerade as a person, or if they want to be true to their origins and resume the title of extraterrestrial.
As noted, extraterrestrial beings should not be treated as mere animals. How, one make ask, is it possible to treat unearthly beings as a regular human? Aliens wishing to stay on planet Earth for a limited amount of time should be regarded as refuges, seeing as they are. "Neither citizen nor subject of any foreign government on Earth" (Freitas. Legal Rights of Extraterrestrials). Extraterrestrials wishing to dwell on plant Earth for an extended or indefinite amount of time, however, need be required to establish residency and citizenship

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