Image Theory

A common saying goes, “Knowledge is power”, but this idea is not always true before starting a research endeavor. In fact, research demands as much of an unbiased view as possible. Sometimes, it is required for researchers to try and rid themselves of all known information. Another scenario is that the information is not known such as the case of the aliens who recently contacted Earth. Little is known about them, but that can be used as an advantage. The time is filled with uncertainty as the intentions of these aliens are unknown. Further research is needed to determine the threat, if any, of these aliens. Fear of the unknown should not cloud judgment in this study, because in short, that is the purpose, to make the unknown known. The study of the likelihood of violent behavior of the aliens includes analysis under the assumptions of image theory while looking from the psychological, political, as well as the physical viewpoints.
An understanding of image theory is important before proceeding any further. Image theory operates under the belief that a group’s view of another group affects the interactions. Each image is defined by different characteristics that include the other group’s capability, culture, intentions, decision makers, and if the group is a threat or an opportunity (Lecture). Once these are determined, the image can be found. These …show more content…
The political side of this idea will play a large influence in how the alien race view the human race’s leaders as well as all the other concepts. Beyond the leader’s rhetoric, positive or negative, examining the willingness of the general population to follow it will also be useful in determining is violence is imminent. Even if the leader’s view on humans is generally negative, if the general population does not buy into the view, it is unlikely that violence will occur or it will occur on a mass scale over a long period of