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Journal . 2025
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
ZENODO
Journal . 2025
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
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Civilizational Trauma and Systemic Fragility: A "Hybrid" Solution to the Fermi Paradox

Authors: Carter, Jeffery;

Civilizational Trauma and Systemic Fragility: A "Hybrid" Solution to the Fermi Paradox

Abstract

Abstract: The Fermi Paradox is the contradiction between the high probability of extraterrestrial life and the lack of evidence for it. It remains unresolved. Traditional solutions often rely on physical constraints or the rarity of life's origin. However, recent evidence suggests a "panspermic universe." This implies life is common. This makes the silence even more paradoxical. This paper proposes a sociological and thermodynamic filter. We call it Civilizational Trauma. We argue that the "Dominator" model of civilization is characterized by unchecked exponential growth and total environmental control. This model is a self-terminating pathology. It is analogous to biological cancer. Using historical case studies of systemic collapse, such as Rome and Sumeria, we demonstrate a critical flaw. Civilizations that maximize efficiency over resilience inevitably succumb to systemic fragility. This happens before they achieve interstellar colonization. The "Great Filter" is therefore the failure to transition paradigms. Successful civilizations must move from a "Sky Father" expansionist paradigm to a "Hybrid Steward" resilient paradigm. Version 2.0 Update (December 12, 2025):This revised version incorporates significant expansions to the theoretical framework, specifically:• The "Cancer" Framework: Explicitly defining unchecked expansion as a thermodynamic pathology.• The Historian's Defense: Case studies demonstrating how technological efficiency creates systemic fragility.• The Acceleration Factor: A new analysis of how technology acts as a multiplier (T) for biological imperatives rather than an escape from them

Keywords

Civilizational collapse, Theran Inversion, Fermi Paradox, Technosignatures, Astrosociology

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selected citations
These citations are derived from selected sources.
This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Citations provided by BIP!
popularity
This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Popularity provided by BIP!
influence
This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Influence provided by BIP!
impulse
This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Impulse provided by BIP!
0
Average
Average
Average
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