Why Science Fiction Authors Make Aliens Look Human

Science fiction has long been a realm where the possibilities of the human imagination are explored to their fullest extent. One common theme in this genre is the depiction of aliens that resemble humans. This practice, however, serves multiple purposes for authors and readers, often driven by relatability, ease of storytelling, and budgetary considerations.

Relatability: Bridging the Gap Between the Alien and the Human

Many authors choose to make their alien characters look human because it enhances relatability. According to numerous science fiction writers, including myself, readers can more easily connect with humanoid aliens. This connection allows for deeper emotional engagement and a greater sympathy for the characters' struggles. If the aliens were entirely different in appearance and behavior, the reader might struggle to understand their motivations and experiences, making the narrative less engaging.

Ease of Writing and Reading: The Visual Vagary of Humanoid Characters

Another reason for the prevalence of humanoid aliens in science fiction is the ease of description and visualization. Humanoid characters can have their emotions and expressions conveyed through familiar ways, such as facial expressions and body language. This makes it easier for the author to write and the reader to visualize the scenes and emotions being portrayed. Describing an alien with unfamiliar physical attributes, such as tentacles or multiple heads, can be more challenging and may require the introduction of new terms and concepts that could distract from the narrative.

Budgetary Constraints: The Practical Limitations of Visual Storytelling

In media formats such as video games, movies, and television, the depiction of alien life forms often relies heavily on visual and special effects. Realistic and alien-looking creatures can be technically challenging and expensive to create. For instance, in Star Wars: A New Hope, the Cantina scene features aliens both humanoid and not, but often, the more alien-looking creatures are conceptually illustrative rather than hyper-realistic. Additionally, a humanoid appearance can be easier to depict in animation or video games, as it can rely more on character design than on advanced visual effects.

An Exploration of Alien Diversity: The Martian Example

Despite the common tendency to depict aliens as human-like, it is important to recognize that not all alien life forms need to resemble humans. For instance, consider the Martian alien described in the 1963 novel. This Martian had antennae, a feature not found in human anatomy. However, he could retract these antennae and blend in with human society, even getting a job as a high school history teacher. This example demonstrates that the human-like appearance of aliens is not a strict necessity but rather a choice made for narrative purposes. Life forms on other planets or in other dimensions can be as unique and unpredictable as one's imagination allows.

The Death Star: A Leap of Imagination vs. Realistic Depiction

To further illustrate the point, take a look at the iconic Star Wars character Jabba the Hutt. At first glance, Jabba appears as a large, 7-foot wide crustacean with 8 eyes and legs, which might be intimidating. However, within the narrative of Star Wars, these aliens are depicted as hospitable and magnanimous. The decision to create these alien characters in a recognizable, albeit exaggerated, human form allows the audience to understand and relate to their actions within the story's context.

Conclusion

The depiction of aliens in human-like forms is a multifaceted choice in science fiction. It can enhance relatability, simplify storytelling, and be practical within the constraints of visual media. While there is no inherent reason why all aliens must look human, the choice to do so is a well-crafted decision that aids in engaging the audience. Ultimately, the diversity of alien life is as vast as the human imagination, and the specific appearance of an alien character is merely a product of the narrative's need and the practical limitations of the medium.

As we continue to explore the vast universe of science fiction, the depiction of aliens is likely to remain an intriguing aspect of storytelling, a bridge between the familiar and the unknown, the human and the alien.