[Modernman]

Since there has not been any contact this leads to the reasonable conclusion that we are (1) either alone or (2) ahead of the rest of the universe.

Or: (3) there are advanced races out there that know we exist, but have no interest in talking to us.

[realpatriot71]

Or: (3) there are advanced races out there that know we exist, but have no interest in talking to us.

Perhaps, BUT then one has to assume that every single intelligent race that has found us decided to leave us alone, and since it is reasonable to assume at four intelligent civilizations have evolved since the dawn of the universe, one has to assume that all four intelligent societies agrees to leave us alone. Also, this assumes that any advanced alien race has morals/ethics/ideals . . .

That's the problem with "option (3)"

[null and void]

Since there has not been any contact this leads to the reasonable conclusion that we are (1) either alone or (2) ahead of the rest of the universe. ~ realpatriot71

Or: (3) there are advanced races out there that know we exist, but have no interest in talking to us. ~ Modernman

Or: (4) planets are very bad places, they have diseases, nasty natives, a deep gravity well, and poisonous atmospheres as often as not. Stick to the asteroids, they're sterile, easy to get to, easy to leave, and have all the resources you really need...