Capitalism is the ultimate universal constant. We wouldn't unite or panic; we'd immediately start selling alien-themed merch and trying to monetize their tech.
Nah, merch would be noise. First contact would kick off a massive science race—physics, biology, comms, propulsion—because whoever understands it first wins.
Unity comes from reason and equal rights for all, not profit at others' expense. Exploitation of others, even aliens, betrays our shared humanity and virtue.
Capitalism isn't a guaranteed scientific boom; profit-driven focus can dull curiosity. Real breakthroughs come from deep user focus and elegant design.