The Big Picture
Abstract
An outline of the highest-level theoretical frameworks of SETI, including the Catalytic Insight of Modern SETI by Cocconi & Morrison and Drake that launched the modern form of the field; the Kardashev Scale; the ichnoscale; cultural expectations of contact and how we define ``advanced'' technology; and how SETI deals with physics-as-we-don't-know it. Ends with a brief discussion of claims that SETI is not really science. Includes exercises for students.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Space Science and Extraterrestrial Life
Paranormal Experiences and Beliefs
Earth Systems and Cosmic Evolution
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Institute of Physics eBooks
- Pages
- 4–1
- Publication date
- 1 January 2026
- Document type
- Book chapter