From scientists to fiction writers, conspiracy theorists to theologians, aliens have captured the imagination of us all. But as we ponder the possibilities let us pause to ask ourselves why.
Why do these yet to be found creatures from space occupy such a central role in the musings of so many? And should their existence be confirmed, what will it mean for us on Earth?
While none can say for sure, there's certainly no shortage of ideas. From a peaceful first contact to doomsday scenarios of all sorts, the possibilities are endless. This hour we speak with a scientist, a science fiction writer and a professor of theology about their thoughts on "E.T."
GUESTS:
- Paul Davies - Regent Professor of physics at Arizona State University, where he directs the Beyond Center for Fundamental Concepts in Science; author of The Fifth Miracle: The Search for the Origin and Meaning of Life
- Lee Billings - Editor at Scientific American and author of Five Billion Years of Solitude: The Search for Life Among the Stars
- Brian Trent - Award-winning science fiction writer and lecturer from Waterbury, including for Analog, COSMOS, and Fantasy and Science Fiction; author of Rahotep
- Celia Deane-Drummond - Professor of Theology at Notre Dame University, and author of Wonder and Wisdom: Conversations in Science, Spirituality, and Theology
MUSIC:
- "Two Little Men in a Flying Saucer" by Ella Fitzgerald
- "Starman" by David Bowie
- "Calling Occupants of Interplanetary Craft" by The Carpenters
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Colin McEnroe and Chion Wolf contributed to this show, which originally aired April 27, 2016.
