General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: New model predicts that we're probably the only advanced civilization... [View all]The_jackalope
(1,660 posts)1. Intelligent life is probably carbon-based, and evolves most readily on planets with an oxygen atmosphere. This is due to the energetic nature of carbon combustion (02+C -> CO2) which would power carbon-based life.
2. The jump from merely intelligent life to technological life requires relatively large amounts of controllable energy.
3. The most available form of energy on a carbon/oxygen planet would come from burning carbon, likely plant material such as wood.
4. As more energy is required to support advancing technology, stored carbon would be used (i.e. fossil fuels.)
5. The useful energy available from such combustion is immediately apparent. The effects of the waste gas CO2 is not.
6. By the time the climate change induced by the waste CO2 is recognized (and the risk of climate change is accepted as being greater than the benefit of fuel combustion) it's too late.
And another one bites the dust.
If anyone thinks I'm being parochial, I challenge you to come up with another scenario that generates the energy needed for technology, but avoids the CO2 trap.