Do Aliens Have Rights?
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Captain Jack Harkness is biased against aggressive aliens
One of the common ethical themes of Torchwood is the question of alien "rights" versus human rights. In one episode Captain Jack Harkness uses a captured alien as bait, something that Gwen Cooper considers deplorable.
In another episode Jack tries to rescue an alien that is being severely abused, claiming that it doesn't deserve its treatment.
The difference between the two aliens? The first was aggressive, known for attacking and killing humans; the second was passive and non-threatening. Both were sentient, with indications of some intelligence.
Image: One of the aggressive Weevils from Torchwood. Copyright © BBC.
Do aggressive aliens forfeit their rights?
It could be argued that standard rights cannot be granted to aggressive aliens such as the Weevils, because of their propensity towards attacking and killing humans without provocation, as in the example of this janitor who approached an escaped Weevil out of concern for the wellbeing of what he believed was simply a strange-looking person. Containing supernatural beings and aliens without violating their rights
It could be extremely difficult to contain violent beings when they have powers not available to normal human beings, as in the example of this aggressive fairy who is able to fly and move at extreme speeds, making it impossible to control. Should aliens be granted asylum?
This alien being was a fugitive from another planet who had been living on Earth in the guise of a human woman called Mary. Despite her lack of aggression, until Jack forced her into a panic over her immigration status, Jack discriminated against her because of her lack of attraction to him.Lack of attraction to Captain Jack Harkness is not a valid reason for denying asylum.
Serious security breeches
The rights of certain aliens to exist could cause the end of the world, as in the case of this massive creature whose shadow causes death and destruction as it moves across the world.Such a case would be an unacceptable breech of security and an impact on the rights of human beings all over the world.
Who is Torchwood?
Catch up on Torchwood
Hollywood's take on aggressive aliens
This is what Hollywood has projected that a possible attack on Earth by aggressive aliens could entail, especially if superior fire-power and craft are involved.This would also constitute a serious security breech and such an eventuality should be taken into account when drafting up a charter of alien rights.
Independence Day DVD cover, copyright © Centropolis Entertainment
Watch scary alien movies to help you make up your mind
Hollywood's take on friendly aliens
Friendly E.T. made every effort to learn to communicate with humans and understand our culture. He even made close friends in his short time visiting Earth, and was able to help a family grow closer together. He definitely gets a return visitors VISA.E.T. still from E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial, copyright © Universal Pictures
Watch friendly aliens
Your take on the issue
What do you think about alien rights? Should only Torchwood aliens have rights, or should the benefits be extended to all aliens, regardless of which show they come from?
Should real aliens be given rights if they show up on our atmosphere-step?
Should aggressive aliens forfeit these rights? Should an alien's violent nature be held against it - or is this discrimination?
Should aliens be granted certain rights?
Fetching blurbs now... please stand byYes, aliens should be granted rights.
NarrowPathPublishing says:
We should have the same rules we have towards Earthly aggressors. Self-defense is always appropriate, so if an alien is aggressive towards us we have the right to defend ourselves. We should not presume aliens are dangerous because they look funny or aren't attracted to us, however. (Although I'm not convinced that's why "Mary" was denied asylum. Manipulating Tosh might have had something to do with that.)
Posted November 08, 2010
susannaduffy says:
Limited rights, yes. Maybe something along the lines of District 9, their own place where they feel comfortable with each other. Not too close to us of course, would you like your daughter to marry one?
Posted July 04, 2010
Sarah says:
of course, if they are legal aliens, they should have the same constitutional rights as a native citizen. although, I do think that having them come from a foreign country, they shouldn't have the right to vote or run for public office, just in case they try&inforce their native homelands' laws.
Posted September 21, 2008
No, aliens should not be granted rights.
BigGirlBlue says:
I agree with Victoria, if it's trying to eat me then it's rights go out the door. Unless of course I'm on it's planet then I guess its rights outweigh mine. :)
Friendly aliens should definitely be given asylum.
Posted June 05, 2008
Victoria_Neely says:
Sure it's discrimination. But if an alien life form wants to eat my brains and doesn't care about my opinion on the matter, I'd say the alien is a bit prejudiced too.
Posted May 27, 2008
Aliens should have rights
If you agree, add links (proof!) that aliens should be granted rights
Add a link that makes my case.
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
Critics acclaimed E.T. as a classic. Roger Ebert w more...1 point
Jar Jar Binks
1 point
Aliens cannot be granted rights
Disagree? Put your money where your mouth is and show us why.
Post links that point out why you think I'm wrong.
Predator (alien)
1 point
Alien in 30 seconds with bunnies.
Alien bunnies contains cartoon blood and guts, and more...0 points
Alien Talk
Discussion of extraterrestrials, UFOs, and aliens.0 points
On a more serious note...
Greg Egan is one such author, and his website contains plenty of information about this cause.
Greg Egan helping asylum seekers
Lens content copyright © Elsa Neal, 2008-2010. All rights reserved.
by daoine
Daoine (aka Elle Neal) has been a fan of Torchwood since the first episode. She is hoping Australian TV will wake up and realise there is a second season... more »
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