Science Fiction. Genre and Concerns

1. Science Fiction

Genre and Concerns

2. What is Science Fiction?

Science fiction is a writing style which
combines science and fiction.
It is only limited by what we presently know
about the basic physical laws of nature.
It evolved as a response to fantasy.

3. Familiar Science Fiction

Star Wars
Star Trek
2001: A Space Odyssey
Independence Day
I, Robot
Men in Black
Terminator
The Matrix
Jurassic Park

4. What do these stories all have in common?

Setting: the future
Advanced technology:
genetic engineering, intelligent robots,
experimental medicine
Concerned with outer space:
aliens, space travel, other planets and solar systems

5. Sci Fi vs. Fantasy

Science fiction is
based in fact: some
of the technology is
invented, some of
the places are
made up, but all of
it is conceivable.
Fantasy is not based
in reality: it is purely
imaginative.

6. History of Childhood’s End

Author: Arthur C. Clarke
-renowned Science Fiction author
Published in 1953
History
-On the brink of the Space Race
-The end of the British Empire and Colonialism
-Pre-Civil Rights Movement
Technology
-The first color TV went on sale in the US for $1,175
-New York introduced the first 3-color stop lights

7. Sci Fi Elements in Childhood’s End

Setting: the future
- the beginning of the 21st century
-50 years later, the middle of the 21st C
Concern with Outer Space:
-Aliens
-Humans have been to the moon; haven’t yet traveled
the whole solar system
Advanced Technology:
-advanced communications, speedy travel
Paranormal Phenomena
-ESP and psychic experiences, the Ouija board,
The Overmind