I often wonder if this is the solution to the Fermi paradox. The assumptions go like this.

    * Natural selection works everywhere, on individuals and societies. They compete even after survival is secure
    * Intelligent creatures need social order and specialization to become industrial
    * There will be administrative/ruling specialties because flat organizational hierarchies work for ants and bees but not when work and global coordination becomes complex
    * Social order installed, tech attained
    * Absolute power corrupts absolutely
    * ET gulag, end of space travel, everyone is busy making war and pleasing dear leaders

No references.