Most scientists and laypeople would agree that life is probably out there somewhere, but proof has been the greatest delayed gratification of modern science. We know one another too well. On the other hand, earthly experience is still the raw material for our imaginations. Clearly, when we think of ETs, we are constructing reflections of ourselves, just as we project our own feelings onto other people and animals. If and when we ever do meet ETs, our urge will be to empathize with them.
People like to wonder how the world works.
They like to know that someone in the society has that expertise. Interest in the Big Questions bears more than a passing resemblance to religion. It is telling that many people speak of cutting-edge scientific issues in the same terms they use for spiritual matters. Among the experts who briefed Vice President Al Gore last month about the program were two theologians. Science educators need to catch up.