Would it be more frightening to discover that humans are the most advanced species in the universe or that we are far from being the most advanced species in the universe?
With how human civilization (civilization, not species) is so close to destroying itself, I'd say the former is more frightening.
Any species that needs outside help to prevent its self-destruction isn't worth saving.
That's not what I was getting at. Was more thinking that, if the former, then us being close to destruction is even sadder because it means that not only is the only advanced civilization on the planet close to collapse, but then also the only advanced civilization in the UNIVERSE is close to collapse. Much, much more tragic.
Would it matter? The value of the universe is relative. If we're gone, or at our apex, then what does it matter? If there are aliens, then why would we care that the universe or its remaining inhabitants are losing its most advanced denizens? It only really matters if you attribute some sort of higher power/higher concept to the universe to give it meaning on its own, but even then it would be on a scale so massive that it would be completely indifferent to such things.
We are tiny and insignificant and our entire existence will pass with no more significance to the universe than a spec of dust in the distance in your peripheral vision will. It can be a scary thing to conceptualize, but also a pretty comforting thing. If nothing matters: Why worry?
also, see recent Atheism vs. Theism posts for why this sort of nihilism is an issue, regardless of whether you're atheist or theist.