The further we venture into the 21st century, the clearer it becomes that we are on the path of becoming a spacefaring civilisation. I have said it previously too that becoming a multi-planetary species seems like a logical next step for an intelligent race.
Now, considering that the universe is so large that we have yet to figure out just how far it stretches out or even what shape it has, it seems quite obvious that there are other lifeforms out there.
I mean, scientists say that it is statistically impossible that we are alone in the universe. And yet, we have not met any aliens (as far as the general public is aware of, that is). If we truly haven't met any, I wonder what the reason maybe!
There are many theories suggested by scientists as to why that may be the case. It's quite interesting to read about them as they provide a different perspective and might answer some burning questions.
Why No Aliens?
The first theory, known as the 'Great Silence Theory' states that if there is a highly advanced alien race out there, it might be so much more intelligent than us that it might not even consider us intelligent. We would be to them what chimps are for us. No use making contact.
Another one, known as "Early Bird Theory" states that we might be the first lifeform in the universe. This would also make us the most advanced civilisation as we would have a head start, although it might not be guaranteed. If this is true, that it would really be something to be the first life ever.
There is another reason which sounds very logical. Maybe the other civilisations are just too far away from us. Maybe they belong to a different galaxy and there just isn't a way for them to make contact with us or know about us in the first place!
The final reason, which I personally think is highly plausible, is that other lifeforms in the universe may not be carbon-based like life on Earth. Maybe they are a completely different lifeform which we wouldn't classify as 'life'. Who knows what weird chemistry nature can do with the elements it has!