The thought of intelligent alien life both fascinates and terrifies us. Why is this? One possible answer is that it is because intelligent extraterrestrials are simultaneously like us, in that they are intelligent biological creatures just like we are, whilst also being (literally) 'alien', and thus potentially radically unlike us.

In this talk, Dr Richard Playford will argue that, if they exist, intelligent aliens will share a number of really important features with us, features we might label our 'humanity'. By this he does not mean that intelligent extraterrestrials would be members of the biological species Homo sapiens, since they clearly wouldn't be. Rather, he will claim that aliens would share with us those most important aspects of our humanity that give each of us intrinsic moral worth and dignity.

Along the way, numerous insights into human nature will be explicated. Richard will conclude by briefly considering what this might mean from an ethical perspective in our interactions with them. 

This talk will be given by Dr Richard Playford, Senior Lecturer in Philosophy, Ethics and Religion at Leeds Trinity University and the author of God and Astrobiology.

Please note that this event will be held on Zoom; joining details will be sent to registered attendees nearer the time.

This event is free, but we welcome any donations, which help to cover our running costs so that we can continue to put on events like this.