oh n/m I just saw the other comment

From AI:

The Fermi paradox is the contradiction between the high probability of extraterrestrial civilizations and the lack of evidence for them; one potential explanation relates to reproduction and expansion, suggesting that advanced civilizations might not reproduce exponentially, perhaps due to cultural shifts like "baby-free" ideologies, or technological advancements that reduce the need for large families. An opposing view is that civilizations simply lack the drive and resources for galactic expansion, which is often linked to the costs and resources needed for raising children, while another theory is that the vastness of space and time makes galactic colonization an impractical feat.

How having children relates to the Fermi Paradox

This video discusses several possible explanations for the Fermi Paradox, including one related to the behavior of advanced civilizations:

• Expansion challenges: The ability to spread to other stars requires a civilization to not only travel but also to reproduce and settle in new systems, a process that could take an immense amount of time and effort.

• "The Great Filter": One proposed solution to the paradox is that there is a "Great Filter," a barrier that prevents civilizations from reaching a point of galactic expansion. This filter could be related to reproduction. For example, advanced technological civilizations might have low fertility rates, or a species might choose not to expand, as seen in the idea of "baby-free" ideologies.

• Resource limitations: While the galaxy has vast resources, a civilization might face resource limitations in raising and educating offspring. This could slow down expansion and prevent a species from becoming dominant across the galaxy.

• Technological advancements: New technologies like artificial wombs, cloning, and life extension could potentially increase fertility or change the relationship between generations.

• Population decline: The "Firstborn Hypothesis" proposes that humanity may be the first intelligent, space-faring civilization in the universe, which would explain the lack of observed extraterrestrial life.

• Alternative solutions: Some believe the paradox isn't about reproduction at all. Instead, it could be that civilizations are not interested in expansion, or that they are simply too far away to detect.