Many who have approached this topic tend to go about it from the starting point of asking "Are the ETs good or bad?".

This very limited dualistic thinking shapes much of the debate on this important topic. Personally, I don't think the answer to that is black and white as the interstellar civilizations that have visited here (historically) and those that are presently visiting here are myriad (and their motivations for being here are varied).

After 10 years plus researching this topic (and having some life changing personal experiences related to this) I have concluded that here are many different advanced cultures who are here now, and thus many different reasons for observation and interaction. That being said, I should start by saying that I do believe there is a coherent intent and motivation on the part of a majority of these interstellar civilizations regarding their interest and interactions with humanity (that being to study, connect with and assist those who choose to operate in a 'compatible state of being' and 'relative clarity of consciousness') so that they may in turn assist the rest of humanity to remember who and what they and take steps towards a more integrous and peaceful civilization on Earth (that can one day become part of a 'federation' of interstellar cultures). Though, I would not describe that as them being here to 'save us from ourselves' or clean up our mess for us, as much as offering a helping hand and guidance to those who are ready to step up and lead by example for the rest of humanity.

From what I gather this main group of the visitors has seen how detrimental it can be when they force an awareness of their presence upon more primitive cultures (like humans) on other worlds, as this results in either xenophobic fear based reactions and/or them being deified and put on some pedestal and worshipped. Neither are conducive to the natural evolution and advancement of civilizations and so they opt for a more gentle introduction of their presence into the consciousness of developing worlds (which are not yet interstellar capable). This more prominent group that seems to represent a consensus of the majority of advanced interstellar civilizations from our galaxy that engage the Earth is in essence offering an open invitation to those humans who wish to help in laying the foundation for a more peaceful, regenerative, compassionate, honorable and responsible civilization on earth (and beyond). These beings communicate via directed thought forms (sometimes augmented by technological communication arrays which can detect, record, transmit and amplify said coherent thought forms.) There are specific methods of 'coherent consciousness training' (aka meditation) that can help one develop the mental capacities which enable open communication with those that use the above described method to communicate.

I have also come to understand that there are also others (interstellar visitors) here for passive observation and study ("anthropologists", "geneticists" "botanists" etc).

(continued in another comment...)