Extra Terrestrial Precises (They're out of this world!)

Carl Sagan

Carl Sagan, in his article "Space Topics: Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence The Abundance of Life-Bearing Planets", refutes several of Mayr's statements that talk about the doubtful possibly of extraterrestrial life. Sagan bolsters his argument by showing examples against Mayr's ideas. Mr. Sagan's purpose in this article was to convince people to believe that there is strong evidence pointing to the existence of extra-terrestrials in order to help SETI recieve funding or support. Sagan's article is aimed towards people who are on the border and who are educated on such a matter. He does this through a sophisticated connection full of bombastic words.

Ernst Mayr

Ernst Mayr, wrote in his text: "Space Topics: Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence Can SETI Succeed? Not Likely", arguing that highly-intelligent extra-terrestrial life is unlikely to exist. Mayr proves this by countering arguments brought up by the opposing side. Mayr wrote this article in order to stop people from donating to SETI, a cause that he most likely believes is taking money and investing it in space, nothing. Sagan's and Mayr's audiences are the same. They both need a highly technical vocabulary about this topic and are on the fence about this topic.