What Is the Fermi Paradox

question 27

Multiple Choice

What is the Fermi Paradox?

• A) Galactic civilizations, like ours, seem forbidden by the laws of physics.
• B) Interstellar travel is possible yet would take an infinite amount of time because of relativistic time-dilation.
• C) We would be unable to detect an Earth-like planet even at a distance of a few light years.
• D) Reasonable assumptions predict that a galactic civilization should have already arisen in the Milky Way. Yet, we have absolutely no evidence for it.
• E) The Drake equation predicts that there should be no intelligent life in the Milky Way. Yet, we exist.

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Definitions:

Expected Price Level

The anticipated average cost of goods and services in an economy over a specific time period.

Aggregate Demand Curve

A graphical representation showing the relationship between the overall price level in an economy and the total demand for goods and services.

Potential Output

The maximum amount of goods and services an economy can produce when it is most efficiently utilizing its resources.

Expansionary Gap

A situation in an economy where actual gross domestic product exceeds the potential GDP, leading to inflationary pressures.