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Categorize a civilization based on its level of development
Categorize a civilization based on its level of development
The Kardašëv scale is a method created by the Russian astronomer Nikolai Kardašëv in 1964 to classify civilizations based on their technological level and the amount of energy they are able to use. This classification is developed along three main categories, each of which represents an exponential level of technological progress [1].
Although purely theoretical, the Kardašëv scale was an important starting point for the SETI project (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) in the search for signs of intelligent extraterrestrial life. It is also cited in numerous science fiction works, where civilizations that have even surpassed Type III are often speculated on, imagining capabilities that defy the known laws of physics [1].
The scale, in addition to stimulating scientific and philosophical debate, invites us to reflect on our technological path and the implications of the responsible use of energy resources.
Levels of the Kardašëv Scale [2]
Levels of the Kardašëv Scale [2]
Type I: Planetary civilization
Energy used: 10¹⁶ watt
A Type I civilization uses all the energy available on its planet, including renewable and geothermal sources, and is able to control natural phenomena such as earthquakes and weather conditions.Current human level: We are a Type 0.7 civilization, according to the formula proposed by Carl Sagan, which takes into account global energy consumption (approximately 1.75 × 10¹³ watts in 2019). We could become Type I by 2200, according to physicist Michio Kaku. (details at the end of the paragraph)
Type II: Star civilization
Energy used: 10²⁶ watt
A Type II civilization controls all the energy emitted by its star, hypothetically through "megastructures" such as the Dyson Sphere, capable of collecting all the stellar radiation.
Type III: Galactic Civilization
Energy used: 10³⁶ watt
A level where civilization dominates the energy of an entire galaxy, exploiting stars, black holes and other cosmic sources to support its development. This civilization could travel across the galaxy, expand, and become a dominant race.
Type IV: Controls the energy of a supercluster of galaxies(10⁴⁶ watt).
Type V: It uses the energy of the entire visible universe(10⁵⁶ watt).
Type VI: Manipulate energies and physical laws of multiple universes(10⁶⁶ watt).
Type VII: He is capable of creating universes at will and exploiting them as energy sources.
Type VIII: It goes beyond the cosmos, using non-cosmic sources for energy and survival.
Type IX: It creates objects and energies that do not derive from cosmic processes.
Type X: It completely abandons our universe, evolving into self-built realities with its own physical laws, becoming virtually immortal and almost divine.
These extreme levels describe entities that defy human understanding, becoming equivalent to "cosmic deities".
Criticisms and Limitations of the Scale
Criticisms and Limitations of the Scale
Self-extinction and Technological Singularity: According to Kardašëv's collaborators, such as Iosif Šklovsky, very advanced civilizations may not exist for long, destroying themselves with their own technologies.
Missing cosmic footprints: A Type III or higher civilization would leave visible traces (for example through radio waves or cosmic alterations), but such signs have not yet been detected.
Non-universal conditions: Alien civilizations may not have access to the same resources as Earth (e.g. fossil fuels), making linear progression difficult.
Philosophical and Social Reflections
Philosophical and Social Reflections
This scale connects to other evolutionary theories, such as that of Leslie White, which links human progress to energy consumption and technology. In a context of science fiction and cosmology, the Kardašëv Ladder also stimulates debate on issues such as the future of humanity, technological sustainability and the role of other civilizations in the universe.
IN-DEPTH CURRENT CIVILIZATION
IN-DEPTH CURRENT CIVILIZATION
The Kardašëv Scale, reworked through the mathematical model developed by Carl Sagan, offers a unique point of view to understand the future of human progress, linking it directly to energy consumption. The study described, based on 2018 data from the International Energy Agency (IEA), reveals how our civilization is at the 0.728 level, suggesting a slow but continuous approach to Type I, that is, a planetary civilization capable of exploiting all the energy available on the planet [2].
Sagan's Formula
Sagan's Formula
Sagan's logarithmic formula allows you to calculate the KK civilization level, where:
K=log10W−6K = \log_{10} W - 6
WW: Total power used in watts.
In 2018, global energy consumption was approximately 1.90 × 10^{13} W, placing us close to the first level of the Kardašëv scale.
Predictions about the future
Predictions about the future
According to physicist Michio Kaku and other estimates, humanity could reach the next levels according to these optimistic timelines:
Type I: by 2200-2371, depending on technological, economic and social conditions.
Type II: thousands of years later, harnessing the energy of an entire star.
Type III: over a period of time between 100,000 and 1 million years, coming to dominate an entire galaxy.
A double-edged progress
A double-edged progress
Scholars point out that technological progress has given us extraordinary tools to advance along the Kardashev ladder, but it has also brought with it significant risks:
Risk of self-destruction: Advanced technologies, if not managed wisely, could cause irreversible damage, such as environmental catastrophes, nuclear conflicts, or technologies that escape human control.
Climate crisis and sustainability: The transition to a Type I civilization implies a global energy transformation towards renewable sources and the drastic reduction of environmental impact.
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