The idea that more time is needed for intelligent life...
is interesting from the standpoint that if we continue to progress, we may be the guys who make the earth stand still for future intelligent civilizations.
In science fiction we have become accustomed to thinking of ourselves as low on the totem pole of galactic intelligence. The idea that we may be the mac daddy in the universe takes some getting used to.
But, I like it. PAX HUMANUS! hehheh