Mark Shermin: Have people from your world been here before?
Starman: Before, yes. We are interested in your species.
Mark Shermin: You mean you’re some kind of an anthropologist? Is that what you’re doing here? Just checking us out?
Starman: You are a strange species. Not like any other. And you’d be surprised how many there are. Intelligent but savage. Shall I tell you what I find beautiful about you? [Shermin nods]  You are at your very best when things are worst.