The search for E.T. has lessons for us all

The US government's pursuit of alien life has unforeseen benefits for those back on Earth

The Pentagon revealed in June that officials have been studying sightings of unidentified aerial phenomena. PHOTO: AFP PHOTO /US DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE/HANDOUT

(FINANCIAL TIMES) Earlier this year, I found myself in the Pentagon, the vast headquarters of the American military apparatus, for a meeting, when I spotted a striking sign on a door. It seemed to indicate the office was dedicated to research into unidentified flying objects, aka UFOs.

Security was tight, and yet I asked: "Is that a joke?"

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