  The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) has heretofore been a
largely passive exercise, reliant on the pursuit of technosignatures. Still,
there are those that advocate a more active approach. Messaging
Extraterrestrial Intelligence (METI) has had a controversial history within the
larger SETI project; it is claimed that the risks involved outweigh any
potential benefits. These arguments are ultimately not compelling, result in
absurd policy recommendations, and rest on a faulty appreciation of the nature
of technosignatures, whose detectability implies intent to signal. Present
technology is advancing quickly such that we will soon have great observational
reach, to the point of reliably detecting such technosignatures and
biosignatures: a capability that can be matched or exceeded elsewhere. To
escape the SETI Paradox properly defined, at least one technological
civilization must choose not to suppress its own continuum of astrobiological
signals, of which METI is merely the most effective endmember. Passive SETI's
low likelihood of success in the short-term is a serious obstacle to
sustainable funding, alongside a 'giggle factor' enhanced by a pernicious fear
of contact. The scientific community must integrate an active approach to
better ensure both the continuity and eventual success of the SETI project.
