Answer:
I would most likely believe the first set of aliens, "The Wretched".
Explanation:
This question is about the story "The Wretched and the Beautiful", by E. Lily Yu, which develops the theme of how refugees are perceived and treated through an impactful metaphor.
Two sets of aliens land on a beach. The first set, the wretched, is comprised of odd looking aliens. Their disgusting appearance and the fact that they have shown up "unannounced" make the humans on the beach attack them out of fear. They finally voice their reasons to be there, explaining they need refuge. Humans are then annoyed to have to deal with someone else's problem, and do very little to help.
The second set of aliens, the beautiful, arrive. Since their appearance is much more pleasant and human-like, humans believe them when they claim that the first aliens are actually criminals. This metaphor is used to show us how biased we can be against those who are different than us.
I would believe the first set of aliens. And I would do it because I know others wouldn't. Our instinctive response to differences is hostility. That is our primitive brain speaking, telling us that that being does not belong to our community, our tribe, and should be seen as an enemy. However, we should evolve beyond that notion. We know much better now. Anyone deserves trust, a chance to be truly seen and understood, a chance to feel safe and taken care of. No matter how different or similar they are when compared to us.
