Abstract

AbstractThe possibility of seeding other planets with life poses a tricky dilemma. On the one hand, directed panspermia might be extremely good, while, on the other, it might be extremely bad depending on what factors are taken into consideration. Therefore, we need to understand better what is ethically at stake with planetary seeding. I map out possible conditions under which humanity should spread life to other solar systems. I identify two key variables that affect the desirability of propagating life throughout the galaxy. The first is axiological and depends on which value theory in environmental ethics is correct. The second is empirical and depends on whether life is common or not in our region of the universe. I also consider two ethical objections to an interplanetary life-seeding mission: the risk of interfering with indigenous life and the risk of increasing suffering in our galaxy.

Highlights

  • Advances in interstellar probe technology, biotechnology and the study of exoplanets have made it possible to discuss interstellar directed panspermia in a more serious tone.1 Directed panspermia, or planetary seeding, is the deliberate transmission of microorganisms to a lifeless planet with the aim of seeding it with life

  • On the one hand, directed panspermia might be extremely good, while, on the other, it might be extremely bad depending on what factors are taken into consideration

  • I map out possible conditions under which humanity should spread life to other solar systems

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Summary

Introduction

Advances in interstellar probe technology, biotechnology and the study of exoplanets have made it possible to discuss interstellar directed panspermia in a more serious tone. Directed panspermia, or planetary seeding, is the deliberate transmission of microorganisms to a lifeless planet with the aim of seeding it with life. Advances in interstellar probe technology, biotechnology and the study of exoplanets have made it possible to discuss interstellar directed panspermia in a more serious tone.. Planetary seeding, is the deliberate transmission of microorganisms to a lifeless planet with the aim of seeding it with life. The foreseeable possibility of directed panspermia demonstrates that, as humanity’s ability to operate in outer space increases, we will face more ethical questions about space. The technology for directed panspermia could be viable before large-scale space settlement projects; planetary seeding does not have to deal with the difficulties of maintaining human life in hostile space environments. The first objection maintains that directed panspermia should be avoided because it could harm local life, if it exists, at the target planet. We face a knotty dilemma with stakes so high that the question of planetary seeding is fundamental: planetary seeding could be supremely good or it could be supremely bad.

The favourable case
Framework for evaluating interplanetary life-seeding
Ethical objections to directed panspermia
Interfering with local biota
The risk of suffering
Findings
Conclusion
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