Astronomy final exam question: SETI and BETI scientific pursuits?

Astronomy 10 Final Exam, Spring Semester 2008
Cuesta College, San Luis Obispo, CA

Astronomy 10 learning goal F.2

[3.0 points.] Which one of the following choices best explains why research in SETI (search of extraterrestrial intelligence) and BETI (broadcasts to extraterrestrial intelligence) would not be considered scientific pursuits?
(A) Because of the finite speed of light and the most likely vast distances to the nearest advanced extraterrestrial civilization, a message may come well after our civilization has died out.
(B) Not receiving a reply does not validate or invalidate the hypothesis that advanced extraterrestrial civilizations exist.
(C) Messages would only be able to contain the most basic scientific information.
(D) Messages would only contain cultural and subjective messages that contain little or no scientific principles.
(E) Messages take resources away from valid scientific research with radio telescopes.

Correct answer: (B)

"Absence of evidence is not evidence of absence." A null result cannot prove or disprove the extraterrestrial hypothesis, but this is often an emotional issue, and thus resources are being spent on the pursuit of searching for, or sending out messages.

Student responses
Section 5166
(A) : 14 students
(B) : 21 students
(C) : 1 student
(D) : 4 students
(E) : 0 students

Section 4160
(A) : 12 students
(B) : 20 students
(C) : 1 student
(D) : 2 students
(E) : 0 students