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Archive for the ‘Science’ Category

Science fiction is a broad category of literature and film that examines the interplay of technology and society.

Definition

Science fiction as defined by the Princeton Library’s WordNet is literary fantasy that imagines what impact technology will have on society.

It is a genre based partially in fact with a blend of fictional concepts to further tell the story and can take place in a futuristic or “alternative” Earth or other planet.

Origins

H. Bruce Franklin, who has authored several books about science fiction, indicates that science fiction was not entirely feasible until there was a shift from an agricultural to an industrialized society.

He pinpoints the first use of the phrase “science fiction” in 1851. William Wilson’s “A Little Earnest Book upon a Great Old Subject” defined science fiction as a pleasing story where the truths about science are revealed.

However, before science fiction was defined, there were several pieces of literature that today might fall under this genre. A few of these famous stories include “Gulliver’s Travels” and “Frankenstein.”

The “Father” of Science Fiction

While there are several authors considered to be the “father” of science fiction, two are primarily referenced as visionaries long before the genre became popular.

H.G. Wells, most often referenced as the “father” of the genre, wrote several well-known stories including “The Time Machine,” “The Island of Dr. Moreau” and “The War of the Worlds.”

The other author also cited is Jules Verne, who wrote works such as “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea,” “Around the World in Eighty Days” and “Journey to the Center of the Earth.”

Other Notable Authors

Some other key people who have made great contributions are:

Isaac Asimov, the most published writer of all time, has written books on nearly every subject. His 1966 “Foundation Series” won the Hugo Award, which honors science fiction writers. He is also well known for his “Robot Detective” stories, such as “The Caves of Steel.” Read the rest of this entry »