Pop Quiz: Why Do We Think Aliens Look Like That?

The video explores the depiction of aliens in pop culture, starting with a pop quiz on famous alien characters. It delves into how cultural anxieties have shaped alien imagery, from early 20th-century films to Cold War influences. The discussion includes insights from Hollywood artist Carlos Puente on designing aliens and the role of astrobiology in theorizing alien life. The video highlights how aliens reflect societal fears and hopes, serving as a lens to examine human interactions and cultural narratives.

Which movie or TV show features the alien character ET?

• Futurama

• The Simpsons

• Star Wars

• E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial

In which show does the alien character Kang appear?

• Star Trek

• The Simpsons

• Futurama

• Doctor Who

What was a common depiction of aliens in early 20th-century media?

• Giant insects

• Robotic figures

• Little grey men

• Humans in costumes or makeup

Which sci-fi franchise featured the villain Ming the Conqueror?

• Star Wars

• Flash Gordon

• Star Trek

• Battlestar Galactica

What event in 1955 contributed to the image of 'little grey men'?

• Mars rover landing

• Area 51 discovery

• Kentucky farmhouse encounter

• Roswell UFO incident

What cultural anxiety is linked to the rise of UFO sightings post-WWII?

• Economic depression

• Nuclear threats and the Cold War

• Environmental concerns

• Technological advancements

Which artist is known for designing aliens in films like Prometheus?

• Rick Baker

• Stan Winston

• Carlos Puente

• H.R. Giger

What natural element inspired the alien design in the movie Arrival?

• A coral reef

• A jellyfish

• A giant squid

• A beluga whale

What scientific field studies the potential forms of alien life?

• Cosmology

• Exoplanetology

• Astrobiology

• Astrophysics

How do aliens in pop culture reflect human society?

• By showcasing technological advancements

• By predicting future events

• By mirroring cultural and political anxieties

• By representing historical figures