Michael Swanwick's Periodic Table of Science Fiction

100

Fermium

(257)

The Fermi Paradox

The Fermi paradox, in its most succinct form, may be stated as follows:

If Enrico Fermi truly existed, why isn't he here now?

Which is to say, given an infinite universe, every possible configuration

of matter must eventually occur, among which by definition must be an

infinite number of Enrico Fermis. More than enough, one would think, to

ensure that there would be one with us now, to help us consider the

problem.

Yet there is not.

Briefly, a solution was thought to exist in the Closed Universe model,

which postulates that the universe not being infinite in either extent or

duration, we were lucky to get even one Enrico Fermi, much less asking

for a limitless supply. But then came Frank J. Tipler's Omega Point

hypothesis, which states that there is enough time between now and the

end of our finite universe for intelligent beings to grow into Godlike

intellect and power. In which case they must inevitably bring about all

possible desirable configurations of matter. Among which must surely be

our infinite number of Enrico Fermis.

So why hasn't it?

The universe is a great mystery, and yet one that is ultimately

understandable. Enrico Fermi himself would tell us so, were he here.

Which, inexplicably, he is not.

The End