I think we are all just someone's / something's pet project with a rushed deadline... we are all just puppets.
I agree with the idea that advanced civilizations "discover" technology that will eventually lead to their demise... but I also think that is a bit biased towards anti-war mindsets. However, it still stands to reason.
I also think that advanced civilizations may not want to be bothered by lower civilizations... which is the reason they remain "hidden". For instance, how many of you wish those dumbasses that always ask you to fix their computer would leave you alone? If you are an advanced civilization and have ironed out all of your problems, goals, etc... why have some clutz civilization come in and disease your entities with sickness, polictics and stupidity?
haha