The difference between raman and varelse is not in the creature judged, but in the creature judging. When we declare an alien species to be raman, it does not mean that they have passed a threshold of moral maturity. It means that we have.
In "Speaker for the Dead," Orson Scott Card explores the idea that the distinction between different species, particularly in terms of morality and maturity, is subjective. The terms "raman" and "varelse" categorize beings, but the real difference lies not in the characteristics of the species but rather in the perspective of the observer. When humans label another species as raman, it reflects our own moral growth rather than any inherent qualities of the species being judged.
This perspective challenges readers to reflect on their biases and assumptions regarding intelligence and ethics. The act of judging an alien species should therefore be seen as a mirror to our own values and understanding, emphasizing the need for empathy and humility as we encounter other beings. It invites us to reconsider how our perceptions shape our interactions and highlights the complexities in defining what it means to be "moral."
