What people hope to learn from other civilizations

Probably SETI (the scientific search for extraterrestrial intelligence) will eventually detect and confirm an extraterrestrial radio or optical signal. An international organization (such as Unesco, COPUOS or IAA) may then compose a reply from humanity. Such a message will presumably give certain information about our civilization, culture and science. In addition, our reply might ask certain questions that we are especially eager to have answered. This paper presents a draft of these questions. While composing this draft, the author obtained ideas from 224 adults (primarily in Canada, the UK, Europe and the USA). They listed their responses to the following request: “If a radio dialog with an extraterrestrial civilization occurs someday, what questions do you hope we ask, and what topics do you hope we discuss? From this wise knowledgeable civilization, what do you want to learn most of all?” All of the relevant responses have been organized into eight clusters of questions. In addition to various characteristics of the extraterrestrial civilization itself, the questions ask about the universe, other civilizations in the galaxy and how to achieve a positive long-term future. The importance of the questions underscores the significance of the SETI enterprise.