Because if evolution works the same way in space as it does on Earth, then the first extraterrestrials we meet won’t be anything like us. Instead of graceful humanoids, we might find ourselves negotiating with something that has more legs, more eyes, and no concept of personal space.
The Math is Against Us
Let’s look at what evolution tells us about what works best:
- 7,000+ species of octopuses
- 50,000+ species of spiders
- 1 million+ insect species (making up 80% of Earth’s biodiversity)
- And humans? Just one.
Nature favors small, adaptable, multi-limbed creatures over big-brained bipeds like us. If survival and reproduction drive evolution, then intelligent alien life might look more like spiders than space elves. A terrifying thought—or maybe just a practical one.
Tentacles Over Hands?
Science fiction has convinced us that aliens will be bipedal, but is that really the smartest design?
- Octopuses have nine brains—one in their head and one in each limb.
- They can solve puzzles, use tools, and camouflage themselves like alien shapeshifters.
- More limbs could mean greater adaptability, which is why many scientists suspect that alien civilizations might be arachnid- or cephalopod-like.
Maybe we should stop assuming we’d shake hands with an alien… and start wondering how many hands they’ll have to shake back with.
Predator or Prey?
Would intelligent aliens be peaceful explorers or something much worse?
- The smartest creatures on Earth—wolves, dolphins, chimpanzees, humans—are all predators or opportunistic scavengers.
- Intelligence often evolves from competition, not passive survival.
- Gentle herbivores don’t usually need advanced problem-solving skills to survive.
If first contact happens, we’d better hope they don’t see us as food or a primitive species taking up valuable real estate.
Where Do They Live? How Does That Change Things?
The kind of planet an alien species evolves on could change everything about their body type and intelligence.
- Water worlds? Tentacled creatures might dominate—no bones, just endless adaptability.
- Low-gravity planets? We could see creatures that are taller, thinner, or even balloon-like, floating rather than walking.
- Extreme environments? Insect-like or burrowing creatures could thrive where humans wouldn’t last a minute.
Maybe we’ve been thinking too small. Instead of imagining one dominant alien species, there could be thousands of intelligent forms—each shaped by their unique home world.
But Maybe It’s Not All Bad…
If intelligence favors adaptability and social cooperation, then maybe aliens are more like chimps and dolphins—clever, resourceful, and possibly even friendly.
And even if they turn out to be hyper-intelligent spiders… well, at least we know they’ll be fantastic at pest control!
Readers Are Hooked—Want to Join Them?
I wanted to share a quick note from a beta reader who just finished an advance copy of my novel - Return to the Galaxy—in less than 24 hours!
The book is awesome. I am hooked and waiting for the next one. It was very well written. Reminds me of the Doc Savage series to some extent. 5 stars all the way!—Willow
And another reader? They couldn’t put it down twice!
I absolutely loved this book. I sat down to read it for an hour one evening, but read until I finished it six hours later. Two weeks later, I read it again. Definitely 5 Stars!—Connor
Want to see what all the excitement is about?
But be quick—I’m only offering a limited number of advance copies to my email subscribers, and once they’re gone, they’re gone!
What Do You Think?
- Would an advanced spider-alien civilization be terrifying, or would you shake one of its eight hands?
- Have you ever read a sci-fi book where the aliens weren’t humanoid? What did you think of them?
Contact me and let me know!
Next Time: The Best British Sci-Fi Authors
In two weeks, I’ll be diving into some of the greatest British science fiction authors of all time—the writers who shaped the genre and inspired modern sci-fi. From Arthur C. Clarke to lesser-known legends, I’ll be sharing my top picks.
Until next time, keep looking to the stars… but maybe keep quiet while you do.
Looking for your next read?
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Discover More Free Sci-Fi Adventures
Each month, I’ll team up with a group of talented sci-fi authors to bring you an incredible selection of free books. Whether you’re looking for thrilling space battles, deep space mysteries, or first-contact encounters, these promotions are packed with stories to fuel your imagination.
Each book is completely free to download—just follow the links below and explore new worlds. Don’t miss out, as these giveaways are only available for a limited time!