What Is Your Definition Of Science Fiction?

Robert A. Heinlein, author and critic:
Science fiction is "realistic speculation about possible future events, based solidly on adequate knowledge of the real world, past and present, and on a thorough understanding of the nature and significance of the scientific method" (quoted by Knight in Bishop, Nebula Awards 25, 3).


Theodore Sturgeon, author:
"'A good science-fiction story is a story about human beings, with a human problem, and a human solution, which would not have happened at all without its science content'" (as quoted in Atheling, More Issues, 12).


George Hay:
"Science fiction is what you find on the shelves in the library marked science fiction."

(Aforementioned quotes were borrowed from Dr. Agatha Taormina's web page): http://www.nvcc.edu/home/ataormina/beyond/

Which of these quotations aligns with your definition of Science Fiction? Please respond thoughtfully using references to class discussion, prior knowledge, science fiction literature, science fiction films, etc... Type using complete sentences. This blog response is due by 6th hour Friday, August 20, 2010.

Pure Science Fiction?

Reflect upon what you have contemplated this semester in Science Fiction. Concepts? Films? Texts? Technology? Other? What did you find interesting? What predictions do you have about our Science Fiction future?

Duplicity? Reality?

Are the Grandfather Paradox and time travel essential elements within the Star Trek Episode: The City On The Edge Of Forever? If so, why are what makes them essential? How does this episode make you think about your Time Travel Artifact writing? Reflect, contemplate, and respond by 2:30p.m. on Monday, April 12th.

Redux: Science Fiction In Technology?

Based upon your recent reading of articles in Google Reader regarding science and technology, what connections or observations can you make about your read article(s) and the concepts and stories we have read or viewed? Please complete this blog response in class on 4-2-10.

Burros? Icky? Apes? Candy? Xenophobia?

How does The Planet Of The Apes movie make us contemplate and wrestle with the concept of xenophobia? Does it pertain to the Science Fiction we have read? Please add to this blog during and after each viewing of the movie.

Science Fiction In Technology?

Based upon your recent reading of articles in Google Reader regarding science and technology, what connections or observations can you make about your read article(s) and the concepts and stories we have read or viewed? Please complete this blog response in class on 2-26-10.

"Puppet Show" A Misdirection?

Puppet Show supposedly defines xenophobia.  Is this true?  What do you know?  What do you think this story is arguing?  Base your response upon the Socratic Discussion and your personal thinking.  Please complete your response during class today 2-22-10.