[ryanjamurphy]

> It can be the great filter that leads to the Fermi paradox.

I'm increasingly of a similar view — that the great filter is something we're already past, due to the incredible combinations of constraints that led to where we are today.

Another infinitesimal probability may be the development of abstract intelligence. The conditions that led to our brand of intelligence being an evolutionary advantage seem particularly unique: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK210002/

[AmIDev]

I feel there might be intelligent species out there without either the resources to develop technology or the ability to do so. Sharks could become smarter than us one day, but without thumbs they aren't going to succeed in overtaking the planet. Similarly, there could be a humanoid fish species under thick ice sheets of Europa, and they would never guess there is anything more than their "ocean" in the universe.

[myroon5]

Orcas have impressive brains:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_animals_by_number_of_n...

[borissk]

Good one, I'll have a look. Are there any good videos on YouTube on the topic of origin of intelligence? I can't seem to find any.

[ryanjamurphy]

Wish I could recommend one but I don't frequent YouTube, sorry!