Literature
Alien Perspectives: What Would Humans Find Odd in a Species Eyes?
Alien Perspectives: What Would Humans Find Odd in a Species' Eyes?
Have you ever considered how an alien species might view humans? Terry Bisson's iconic short story, Theyre Made Out of Meat, published in OMNI in 1991, offers a humorous yet thought-provoking look at this concept. Even the most innocuous aspects of human behavior might seem strange to extraterrestrial beings. Let's explore this idea further in the realms of science fiction and fantasy.
Bringing the Oddity of Human Behavior to Life
When crafting a world of science fiction or fantasy, the diversity of alien species can be vast. They may have vastly different ways of reproduction, communication, and even perception. For instance, an alien species that reproduces by splitting themselves in half would naturally find our sexual reproduction and associated behaviors quite odd. Similarly, an alien species that is deaf and relies on telepathy would struggle to grasp the concept of movies and television, as well as communication with humans through speech.
The story of Theyre Made Out of Meat delves into the idea that even the most mundane aspects of human existence can seem alien to extraterrestrial beings. For example, the opening lines: “Theyre made out of meat. Even the most innocuous thing about human beings might seem odd to an alien.” This encapsulates the core concept that our very physical makeup and behavior might not be comprehensible to species from other worlds.
The Flush to the Afterthought
Consider a nearby neighbor with a peculiar trait. In your neighborhood, imagine a situation where a homeowner allows their dogs to run free, and occasionally those dogs enter your yard to relieve themselves. Despite your complaints, the homeowner remains oblivious. This behavior, while common among owners of four-legged friends, might seem strange to an alien species that is cleaner and more conscious of their environment. For an alien, the idea of polluting the air they breathe, dumping toxic waste into drinking water, or even abusing the oceans where they source their seafood, would be incomprehensible and perhaps even amusing or horrifying.
Our treatment of the environment and each other as humans might seem peculiar when viewed from the eyes of an alien. We often behave as if our planet is merely a vacation spot, with no real commitment to its preservation. Aliens might scratching their heads in confusion, wondering why we treat our surroundings so carelessly.
Realizing Our Own Humanity Through Alien Eyes
The question of what other races or species might find odd or typical of the human race invites us to reflect on our own behaviors and values. Do we really think other intelligent aliens are “cleaner” or treat their environment better than us? Could they be dirtier or more careless in their interactions with the environment? Are we more idiotic in our social, economic, and general treatment of other beings?
Perhaps the idea that alien species are inherently more intelligent or responsible than we are is an anthropocentric bias. With the same evolutionary development, alien races would face similar challenges and issues as we do. We should not undervalue the complexity and resilience of the human race. Our oddities and peculiar behaviors are part of what makes us unique and interesting, even from the eyes of an extraterrestrial observer.
Conclusion
The exploration of alien perspectives on human behavior is both a fascinating literary exercise and a compelling lens through which to view our own species. By considering what might seem odd to extraterrestrial beings, we can gain a deeper understanding of the intricacies of our own existence. As we continue to imagine and create in the realms of science fiction and fantasy, let us not forget the profound lessons we can learn about ourselves.
Remember, in the eyes of an alien, mundane human behavior might be nothing short of bizarre. As you journey through the universe of your own imagination, take the time to think about the perspective of the other races or species you may encounter. You might find yourself stepping back and recognizing your own behaviors with a fresh, dispassionate eye.