Vision & Values
Interdisciplinary
We work to build and sustain an interdisciplinary research community which proactively addresses the human understandings and terrestrial effects of discoveries in astrobiology and SETI through specialized research in science communication, science policy, ethics, history, social science, and futures studies. We value a spirit of curiosity and rigorous inquiry that transcends disciplines, where rising and established researchers can blend their expertise to gain insights that would not be possible alone.
Intergenerational
We ground our work in the legacy of John Billingham and other founders of the fields of SETI and astrobiology, striving to share foundational historical resources for researchers’ use. Our efforts aim to be multigenerational and long-lasting, leveraging important historical precedents led by the SETI Institute several decades ago, including the SETI Protocols and the Cultural Aspects of SETI workshops. Symmetrically, we will activate early career research networks to ensure vigorous continuity into the future. We view humanity as a collective of past, present, and future humans capable of directing our integrated attentions to the cosmos.
impactful
We connect scientists with other researchers who can help them to meet the challenges of conducting and communicating high-impact research in a dynamic and complicated world. Reciprocally, we connect interdisciplinary researchers interested in the questions of discoveries and planetary futures with practicing scientists working on relevant and cutting-edge research. The questions that attend the entire process of searching for life beyond Earth parallel some of the most pressing issues of our time, including public interest and investment in processes of scientific discovery, technological developments, effective communication in an often-shifting information landscape, and questions of how best to cooperate on challenges of global importance.
collaborative
We collaborate to examine the implications the search for life has in other arenas (such as science communication, law, and public policy), recognizing that a global multitude of minds and ideas is necessary to address the integrated and challenging questions that this work involves. We aim to find areas of constructive synergy with other topically related initiatives, rather than duplicating them. Recognizing that this research area may eventually result in the development of practical policy suggestions, we see collaboration as essential for generating broad consultation on issues of global importance.
responsible
We contribute to the SETI Institute’s culture of responsible science, thinking carefully about the ethical consideration and treatment of humans, other species, and environments here on Earth, as well as considering safeguards to protect other forms of life and other worlds that humans may discover and eventually be able to reach.
International
The questions this initiative tackles don’t belong to any one group of people or part of Earth, and so it’s very important to us that we are able to connect and collaborate with scholars (as well as non-specialists!) across the globe.
