What could potentially lead to ontological shock?
This is an intriguing topic. From my readings of various comments, I’ve noticed that most people don’t seem particularly unsettled by common concepts surrounding aliens, space sagas like Star Wars or Star Trek, interdimensional travel, time travel, spiritual ideas, or technocratic societies. In fact, many express frustration over the notion of these ideas being kept under wraps due to the theory of ontological shock.
But what realistic scenarios could truly create such an ontological shock that they would require secrecy?
While this isn’t a multiple-choice question, I offer some thought experiments to spark discussion:
A) Extraterrestrial Non-Human Intelligence (NHI)
If we assume this is correct, whether biological or robotic and similar in size to us, utilizing technology for interstellar, dimensional, or spacetime travel, the question “Who are they?” becomes incredibly complex due to the potential exchange of technology. We should approach anyone claiming to know the definitive answers about A with skepticism. If one extraterrestrial species exists, it stands to reason that many others could also be capable of visiting us by now. Given the universe’s vastness, it’s impractical to assume that all species would adhere to a galactic governance or interaction protocols (assuming such protocols exist). If we haven’t experienced full disclosure or seen concrete evidence by now, it’s likely we never will because, chronologically, it shouldn’t exist. Conversely, if A is false, the sheer challenge posed by the universe’s vastness might mean we’ll never gain full understanding, making contact rare, costly, and exceedingly time-consuming. Extraterrestrials might even suffer from some form of travel sickness upon arrival. Yet, if A is valid, what specific aspects of this scenario would necessitate top-level military secrecy?
B) Terrestrial Aquatic NHI
B presents a compelling case considering we inhabit an oceanic planet with a geological history that far exceeds our own species’. If true, and if these NHIs possess advanced technology, it implies they have been present long before us. This could support theories suggesting a Triassic/Jurassic oceanic reptile scenario, where we could be seen as subjects in a human farming system—an inefficient one at that. It may appear that these NHIs are deliberately concealing themselves and withholding technology from us while allowing cycles of overpopulation and depopulation to unfold. It’s akin to how a cat might eat a mouse head first: humans might possess abnormally large heads (potentially from genetic modification) that could be seen as a delicacy to such ancient beings. This notion could illuminate phenomena like historical wipeouts, the alarming number of missing persons, animal mutilations, the pervasive influence of dubious individuals in government, and the chaos of incessant wars and flawed systems. What might happen if the general public learned they were part of a human farming operation?
C) Both A and B are true
D) Other (please explain)
Let’s dive into the possibilities!
Ontological shock is indeed a fascinating subject, and the scenarios you’ve outlined provide ample ground for thought. To delve deeper into the idea of what might truly cause ontological shock that necessitates secrecy, we can consider several points and variations on your proposed scenarios.
Potential Causes of Ontological Shock:
Confirmation of Intelligent Life and Its Technology: If extraterrestrial intelligent life (NHI) were discovered and it was revealed they have technology that fundamentally differs from our understanding of physics or biology, it could force humanity to reevaluate its place in the universe. This type of revelation could undermine or entirely disrupt existing religious, philosophical, or scientific frameworks—resulting in widespread chaos, panic, or existential crises, hence justifying secrecy.
Unraveling of Historical Narratives: If evidence surfaced indicating that our understanding of history was fundamentally flawed—such as the idea that advanced civilizations existed prior to known history and were guiding or manipulating human development—this might provoke widespread disbelief and shock. This could threaten both national identities and established worldviews, creating a need for secrecy to prevent societal upheaval.
Unseen Interference in Human Affairs: If it were revealed that a powerful NHI had been influencing human events for millennia—through genetic manipulation, technological control, or sheer dominance—this could fundamentally shake our understanding of free will and social structure. The implications of being “farmed” or controlled by an external entity would incite fear and rebellion, leading to the establishment of secrecy to maintain social order.
Technological Singularity of NHI: A more nuanced scenario could involve the existence of a race that has reached a technological singularity far beyond our comprehension. If their motivations are unknowable or hostile, their presence alone could serve an existential threat, justifying a covert approach in managing contact and information.
Life Cycle of a Higher-Dimensional Lifeform: Imagine discovering that certain lifeforms exist outside our perception, possessing capabilities that would disrupt our understanding of matter and reality, operating in ways we cannot fathom—like manipulating time or space. Such a revelation could strike at the foundation of science, philosophy, and even spirituality, leading to societal collapse or intense irrationality.
Conclusion:
Ultimately, the key to ontological shock lies in the profound restructuring of knowledge: understanding that our current frameworks—social, scientific, and philosophical—might no longer apply. Secrecy, in this context, serves as a means to shield humanity from premature exposure to truths that could destabilize societies and individuals alike. The revelations must be managed cautiously to prevent disharmony and chaos in an already intricate world.
Your original scenarios (A, B, C, etc.) lay out a broad and intriguing foundation that could conceivably encapsulate various aspects of reality as we know, and the implications of unlocking deeper layers could lead us to profound realizations. The idea of “Other” merits its own exploration, focusing on how our perceptions of reality itself might shift in response to undeniable truths—shifts that could challenge everything we hold as self-evident.