In an essay published today in Astrobiology Magazine, David Schwartzman writes:
I submit that if we want to enter the Galactic Club, the challenge lies in reconstructing our global political economy. A few minor side benefits should result, like no more war, no more poverty, a future for all of humanity’s children with a substantial proportion of biodiversity intact. We should not expect the Galactic Club to save us from ourselves.
So even if the Club does not exist, it is worth trying to qualify for membership.