What if we’re first?
Exactly. The mix of improbable things that all see to be required for intelligent life to occur on this planet make it seem likely that we are alone, or so near to alone in space and time as to make no practical difference.
Especially when you add in advanced technology. Someone has to be first, evolution is complicated and takes a VERY long time, and I just kinda like thinking that we are the first fruits of the whole process.
(The next version should definitely eliminate liberals.)