Is E.T. out there? Well, I work at the SETI Institute. That's almost my name. SETI: Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence. In other words, I look for aliens, and when I tell people that at a cocktail party, they usually look at me with a mildly incredulous look on their face. I try to keep my own face somewhat dispassionate.

In this quote, Seth Shostak humorously reflects on his work at the SETI Institute (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence), a scientific organization dedicated to the search for aliens or intelligent life beyond Earth. He mentions that his job often elicits a reaction of mild incredulity from people, especially when he shares it in casual settings like a cocktail party. This highlights the common skepticism or disbelief that some people have regarding the seriousness of the search for extraterrestrial life.

Shostak's lighthearted mention of trying to keep his face dispassionate in response to people's incredulous reactions underscores the challenge of being a professional in a field that is often met with skepticism or ridicule. Despite the widespread interest in the idea of aliens, many still view the search for extraterrestrial intelligence as an unconventional or improbable pursuit. Shostak's ability to maintain composure in such situations demonstrates his confidence in the scientific merit of the work he is doing.

The quote also speaks to the marginalization of certain scientific fields that are seen as speculative or far-fetched. While the SETI Institute is dedicated to serious, methodical research, the concept of looking for alien life can often seem outlandish to the general public, especially given the lack of definitive evidence. Shostak’s comment reflects the disconnect between the scientific community's work and the public’s perception of what is considered worthy of serious investigation.

Ultimately, Shostak’s quote illustrates the passion and dedication required to work in a field that challenges conventional thinking. It also highlights the curiosity and openness of the SETI Institute's mission, while acknowledging the broader skepticism that the pursuit of understanding extraterrestrial life can generate in everyday social settings.