In John Scalzi's "Old Man's War," the theme of colonization emerges as a fundamental necessity for the survival of humanity. The argument presented suggests that without actively expanding and establishing new colonies, humanity faces the risk of being marginalized and restricted by other races. This perspective posits that colonization is not merely a choice but a critical strategy for preserving the human race in a competitive universe.

The assertion emphasizes a straightforward dichotomy: to thrive and continue to exist, humanity must seek out new frontiers. Failure to do so could result in isolation, where human potential and influence diminish against the backdrop of the broader cosmic landscape. Such a vision of colonization as a survival mechanism underlines the urgency for humanity to embrace exploration and settlement beyond Earth.