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Science Fiction & Society

Lawrence Watt-Evans (Index)
Articles and essays at Science Fiction and Society about Lawrence Watt-Evans and/or his works.
Frederick Pohl (Index)
A list of articles and essays at Science Fiction and Society about Frederick Pohl and/or his work.
Lawrence Watt-Evans (Index)
A list of articles and essays about Lawrence Watt-Evans and/or his work
Kathy Tyers (Index)
A list of articles about Kathy Tyers and/or her works at Science Fiction & Society.
Jorge Luis Borges (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Jorge Luis Borges and/or his work.
Newsletter
Welcome to the official newsletter of Suite101's Science Fiction & Society!
Ian Watson (Index)
An index of articles about Ian Watson and/or his work.
C.M. Kornbluth (Index Page)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about C.M. Kornbluth and/or his works.
Authors (Index)
An index of all authors that appear on Science Fiction and Society. The individual author pages contain links to reviews of their books and/or articles about the authors themselves.
Vernor Vinge (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Vernor Vinge and/or his works.
Timothy LaHaye (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Timothy LaHaye and/or his works.
Star Wars (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society on the subject of Star Wars.
Star Trek (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society on the subject of Star Trek.
Society (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society on the subject of social issues and how they are dealt with by the genre.
SF History (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society on the subject of the roots and history of SF.
Science (Index)
articles at Science Fiction and Society on the subject of A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society on the subject of science. Generally they explore the application of scientific theories by science fiction authors.
Ronald D. Moore (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Ronald D. Moore and/or his works.
Robert Patlock (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Robert Patlock and/or his works.
Richard Matheson (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Richard Matheson and/or his works.
Religion (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society on the subject of religion.
Ray Bradbury (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Ray Bradbury and/or his works.
Orson Scott Card (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Orson Scott Card and/or his works.
Original Fiction (Index)
A list of original fiction at Science Fiction and Society.
Olaf Stapeldon (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Olaf Stapeldon and/or his works.
Norman Spinrad (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Norman Spinrad and/or his works.
Movies and Television (Index)
A list of Science Fiction and Society reviews of or articles about movies and/or television shows.
Michael Crichton (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Michael Crichton and/or his works.
Mary Shelley (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Mary Shelley and/or her works.
Lucian (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Lucian and/or his works.
Lawrence M. Krauss (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Lawrence M. Krauss and/or his works.
John Wilkins (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about John Wilkins and/or his works.
Johannes Kepler (Index)
A list articles at Science Fiction and Society about Johannes Kepler and/or his works.
Jerry B. Jenkins (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Jerry B. Jenkins and/or his works.
Jeff Greenwald (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Jeff Greenwald and/or his works.
Isaac Asimov (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Isaac Asimov and/or his works.
Harlan Ellison (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Harlan Ellison and/or his works.
H.G. Wells (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about H.G. Wells and/or his works.
Gregory Benford (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Gregory Benford and/or his works.
Greg Bear (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Greg Bear and/or his works.
George Orwell (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about George Orwell and/or his works.
Gentry Lee (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Gentry Lee and/or his works.
Bishop Francis Godwin (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Bishop Francis Godwin and/or his works.
Extraterrestrial Life (Index)
articles at Science Fiction and Society on the subject of A list of articles on the subject of extraterrestrial life. Some focus heavily on science fiction books and movies while others focus more on science.
Douglas Adams (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Douglas Adams and/or his works.
Diane Carey (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Diane Carey and/or her works.
Dava Sobel (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Dava Sobel and/or her works.
Connie Willis (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Connie Willis and/or her works.
Carl Sagan (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Carl Sagan and/or his works.
Brannon Braga (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Brannon Braga and/or his works.
Book Reviews (Index)
A list of Science Fiction and Society reviews of or articles about science fiction, science, or societal books and/or short stories.
Athena Andreadis (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Dr. Athena Andreadis and/or her works.
Athanasius Kircher (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Athanasius Kircher and/or his works.
Arthur C. Clarke (Index)
A list of articles at Science Fiction and Society about Arthur C. Clarke and/or his works.
War, What is it Good for? (Part 1)
War and conflict is one of the realities of life, but Star Trek has not always done the best job of portraying it. In a new Star Trek Communicator article the subject is addressed at length. We share some of our thoughts on the topic and the Communicator article here.
The Crystal Spheres (Discussion Article)
A growing body of scientific evidence tells us that the universe should be teeming with life, but when we point our radio telescopes to the stars we find nothing. Known as the Fermi Paradox or The Great Silence, this fruitless search is puzzling. In this Hugo Award-winning short story, David Brin offers one very intriguing solution to the problem.
Star Trek Enterprise: Building an Epic
As Enterprise enters its third season, Berman and Braga grasp for ways to instill new life into the faultering series. Is the Earth/Xindi conflict an effective vehicle to boost ratings? Find out what grade we give Enterprise on this early third-season report card.
An Interview with Liz Williams
Debbie Ledesma, editor of Suite101's Fantasy Worlds, discusses SF and fantasy with author Liz Williams
Cease Fire (Episode Guide)
Enterprise's latest installment seeks to discuss the problems of international conflict and comment on a timely issue: the U.S.-Iraqi standoff. Does it hold true to human nature? How applicable is its message to the current crisis?
Far Beyond the Stars (Episode Guide)
During Black History Month in 1998, Deep Space Nine aired an incredible story that is without a doubt one of Star Trek's finest moments. The story of Benny Russell, a black SF writer trying to make it 1950s' America, is something that everyone -- Trek fan or not -- should see.
Space Shuttle Columbia: In Memoriam
Another sad day has come to the space program as the shuttle Columbia explodes over Texas, bringing back painful memories of the 1986 explosion of Challenger. Lost are the lives of seven brave men and women and perhaps the will of our leaders to continue the drive toward space. What does this tragedy mean to our future in the stars? Here are a few thoughts.
Signs (Movie Review)
Could it be that there are no coincidences? That's the question that M. Night Shyamalan asks in his psychological SF thriller Signs. Does the film live up to the standards set in his previous outings? And when it comes to faith, which side of the fence are you on?
Deep Space Nine: A Tenth Anniversary Tribute
It's hard to believe, but it has been 10 years since Benjamin Sisko first stepped onto our TV screens and forever changed Star Trek. Though often overlooked, DS9 enriched the Trek universe with a depth of writing and an infusion of intelligence that outshines its siblings. On this 10th anniversary, join us for a journey through the show's history and a discussion of its place in the Star Trek franchise.
Star Trek Nemesis (Movie Review)
After four long years of waiting, Star Trek fans are finally treated to a new film, and with it several unexpected twists. Paramount says that a generation?s final journey has begun. Is this really the end for the cast of The Next Generation? What does Nemesis have to say about present day social issues? Join us for a look at the 10th entry in the Star Trek film franchise.
Ranking the Trek Film Franchise
After 23 years of big screen voyages, the Star Trek film count has now grown to 10. So which are the best and which are the worst? Read on and find out where Science Fiction & Society places the theatrical adventures.
Rewriting Trek History
In "Carbon Creek," Enterprise has yet again seemingly contradicted Star Trek history. But do the events in this episode truly change what we know about mankind's first encounter with other life forms? Are Berman and Braga hurting or helping the franchise by changing what we know about the "past"? Join us for a discussion on the current direction of our modern-day mythology.
Enterprise Enters Phase II
After a long summer, “Enterprise” has launched its second season. How did “Shockwave” stack up against Trek tales of the past? Did it serve its purpose as cliffhanger resolution and long-term story development? What is the outlook for this young and visionary series? Join us as we take a journey through time.
Where Have All the Spacemen Gone? Speculations on the Fermi Paradox (Part 4)
Could warfare and biological weapons spell the end of a civilization’s race for the stars? Join us for the final installment in our look at the Fermi Paradox as we examine the third solution and look for further explanations for the absence of signs of extraterrestrial life.
Where Have All the Spacemen Gone? Speculations On the Fermi Paradox (Part 3)
There are countless ideas out there to explain why we find no sign of alien civilizations when we search the stars. Some are compelling, others are not. Is the Earth really a zoo? Is there some kind of galactic Prime Directive protecting us from outside influence? In this installment of our ongoing series, we take a look at three more possibilities that all fit under our second solution to the Fermi Paradox.
Where Have All the Spacemen Gone? Speculations on the Fermi Paradox (Part 2)
We've been looking for E.T. for quite some time, but our search has thus far turned up nothing. Are we alone in the universe? Enrico Fermi found it odd that we seem to have the cosmos to ourselves when popular opinion says the stars should be teeming with other civilizations. Join us for the latest installment in our ongoing series as we examine three possible reasons why little green men aren't knocking on our door.
Where Have All the Spacemen Gone? Speculations on the Fermi Paradox (Part 1)
Astronomers are finding new planets at an astonishing rate. Whereas a few years ago we weren't sure how unique our solar system was, we now know of more than 80 extra-solar worlds. Nevertheless, the detection of other intelligent life eludes us. Join us for the first of a multi-part discussion on the subject of ET and the Fermi Paradox.
Why I Left Harry's All-Night Hamburgers (Discussion Article)
One of the most fascinating ideas in modern physics is the Many Worlds theory -- the idea that there may be an infinite number of parallel universes that differ only slightly from our own. One of the least fascinating locales in the world may be the roadside diner. What happens when the two collide? Find out in Lawrence Watt-Evans’s Hugo and Nebula Award-winning short story.
Fermi and Frost (Discussion Article)
Despite the constant threat of nuclear holocaust, was the Cold War an overall more settling place to live than the world of today? Could weapons of mass destruction be the reason we are confronted with the Great Silence when we look out at the stars? Join us for a walk down Memory Lane and a preview of what may be ahead with Frederick Pohl’s Hugo Award-winning short story. Part of Suite101’s Cold War event.
Deconstructing Shakespeare with Connie Willis's Ado
How out-of-control has politically correct speech become? Just how serious is the danger that special interest groups pose to society? Join us for a hilarious trip into the absurd as we deconstruct Shakespeare with Connie Willis's "Ado."
Evolving with Greg Bear's Blood Music
Each day scientists find new ways to use technological for the benefit of mankind. But what happens when good intentions go bad? Are we destined to become a hybrid life form comprised of biology and technology? Join us for a look at Greg Bear’s “Blood Music.”
Red Planet (Movie Review)
The debate over science vs. religion rages on in the world of SF. Antony Hoffman's Red Planet positions itself to join in the discussion, but can it overcome its action-movie temptations and deliver the goods?
SF and Society: 2001, the Year in Review
As we launch into 2002, we take a moment to look back at the last 12 months of Science Fiction and Society. Join us for a quick tour of the year that was, and find out if you missed any interesting moments!
A Carl Sagan Reading List
Carl Sagan penned many books, and his eloquent prose and masterful communication skills captivated millions. Here we provide a reading list to accompany the main article “Remembering Carl Sagan.” The books on this list will open a whole new world to you.
Remembering Carl Sagan
He was a brilliant scientist and teacher who introduced the wonders of science to millions. In 1996 he was taken from us at the young age of 62. On the fifth anniversary of his death, we remember Carl Sagan and share what this very special man meant to us.
deck.halls@bells/holly
With each passing year, Christmas gets more commercial, decorators get more competitive, and we all find ourselves with less time to actually enjoy the season. But if you think it’s bad now, wait until you meet the characters of Connie Willis’s new holiday novella.
Strange New World (Episode Guide)
Preconceptions can be dangerous things. Star Trek constantly challenges us to embrace the unexpected and let go of stereotypes that hold back progress. Find out what "Strange New World" has to say about the subject in this installment in our society-oriented guide to Star Trek.
Fight or Flight (Episode Guide)
A sense of duty and the ability to adapt. These are two of the most important qualities a person can possess, whether on the bridge of a starship or behind a desk in an office. Find out how the Enterprise crew stands up to the challenge of deep space in this installment in our society-oriented guide to Star Trek.
Broken Bow (Episode Guide)
Setting out on your own is never easy. In the mid 22nd century, mankind has spent a hundred years under Vulcan tutelage and is just preparing to leave the nest. Unforeseen events involving the Klingons accelerate the timeline, and the very first Enterprise is forced to leave dock early. Does the Star Trek saga get off to a smooth start? Find out in this installment in our society-oriented guide to Star Trek.
Enterprise: Early Characters
It’s time once again for the producers of Star Trek to fill the bridge of a starship. After 35 years and dozens of characters, can they come up with yet another group of originals? What kind of characters will we be spending the next seven years with? Join us for our take on the crew of the Enterprise NX-01.
Enterprise: Out of the Gate
Now that Enterprise has launched, how does it stack up against expectations and the previous four series? Does it have the premise, look, and feel to live long and prosper? Find out what we think about this prequel to the most successful franchise in TV history.
Apollyon: Left Behind Vol. 5 (Book Review)
It's time once again to pay a visit to the Left Behind series with a look at the fifth volume, Apollyon: the Destroyer Is Unleashed. As the story develops, so does our opinion of it. This time around we ask the question, Is Left Behind honest in its presentation? See if you agree with our assessment.
The Library of Babel (Discussion Article)
Life is a search for some kind of meaning we can attach to our existence; and many great minds have tried to identify our place in the cosmos. In “The Library of Babel,” Argentinean writer Jorge Luis Borges likens the Universe to a vast repository of books—the sum knowledge of time eternal. Can you identify with his message?
El Hacedor (the Maker): A Profile & Bibliography of Borges
It is the sign of a true maestro when they possess the ability to see universes in a speck of dust, and in turn make us see them as well, and lose ourselves in them. Join special guest author Shaun Michael Jex for a look at Argentinean literary great Jorge Luis Borges and his ties to the genre of SF.
Firebird (Book Review)
What if God had created a universe without Earth, a universe in which other people with a different history fell from grace and sought salvation on their own timescale? That’s the question raised by SF writer Kathy Tyers in her entry into the new subgenre of Christian Science Fiction. Just what is Christian SF? Join us to find out more!
Galaxy Quest (Movie Review)
There’s nothing quite like a good spoof, and nothing quite as enticing a target as Star Trek and its fans. David Howard and Ron Gordon have penned a story that’s sure to tickle your funny bone, filled with plenty of inside jokes for fans as well as fun stuff for those not “in-the-know.” Come on in and join us for our take on Tim Allen and company. Just be sure to leave your red shirt at home.
Endgame: Voyager Finds Her Way Home
As the fifth Star Trek series gets underway, we take a look back at the fourth. The Voyager finale has finally reached Japan and with it a lot of mixed feelings about the trek across the Delta Quadrant. Find out what we thought about the final episode and the series overall.
Fiction Becomes Reality: The World Trade Center Attack
As the world remains in shock at the events of September 11, we take a moment to depart from our normal subject matter at Science Fiction and Society to honor those who died and share hope for the future. Please take a moment and join us.
A Brand New "Enterprise"
We’re just two weeks from launch and, thanks to the stream of information flowing out of press conferences, we’ve got a good idea of what the new Star Trek series has in store for us! In our second look at Enterprise, find out why on September 26 we’ll truly be going where no one has gone before!
A.I. -- Artificial Intelligence (Movie Review)
Join me for my take on Spielberg’s latest effort and find out how your position in life will affect how you perceive the plight of an android child who longs to be “real.”
All Good Things... (Episode Guide)
As technology advances it's all too easy to think that the hardest days are behind us. In the final episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation, Captain Picard gets a wake up call from Q. What is it that our friend from the Continuum is trying to tell us? Find out in this installment of our society-oriented guide to Star Trek.
Johnny McAllister (Original Fiction)
Technology marches on and our lives become easier, more convenient. As traditional tools become obsolete, we believe we are "progressing." But what happens when our new tools fail us? Can we ever go back? Are we better off with the low-tech rather than the high? An original short story by the author of Science Fiction and Society.
X-Men (Movie Review)
The transition to the big screen often leaves comic book favorites flat and hollow. But X-Men takes a glance back at one of mankind's greatest mistakes and proves that history does, in fact, repeat itself.
Darmok (Episode Guide)
Communication is something we generally take for granted. On Earth, even if we speak different languages there's always a dictionary. But what would happen if there was no common frame of reference? Join us for a metaphorical look at speech in this first installment in our socially-oriented guide to Star Trek.
Darwinian Pool Room (Discussion Article)
Time may keep on slipping into the future, but does it do so of its own free will? Do we impose our own will on time, an otherwise abstract concept? Join us as we explore temporal qualities, evolution, Creation, and a friendly game of billiards with this little story by Isaac Asimov.
Enterprise: A Preliminary View
This fall we'll travel back in time to witness the very formation of the Federation as Scott Bakula helms Enterprise, the fifth installment in the Star Trek franchise. Little has been revealed about the new series, but we offer up this early opinion building upon the few details that have been allowed the light of day. Join us as we discuss what Enterprise means to the future—and the past—of Star Trek.
Just My Type: Kardashev Civilizations in SF and Beyond
What does it mean for a civilization to be a million years old? How would you go about classifying such civilizations? Join us for a look at the Kardashev scale and the role it plays in SF and our own future.
Ian Watson: Profile & Bibliography
British SF author Ian Watson uses his societal approach to SF to discuss a wide variety of topics including cetacean intelligence, UFOs, and nuclear war. Find out more about this prolific and very interesting writer, and also browse one of the most complete bibliographies on the Internet.
The World Science Fiction Convention of 2080
Have you ever attended a Worldcon? What do you think one would be like 100 years from now? Does science play an important role in SF, or does it tie the hands of writers? British author Ian Watson explores these questions in his delightful short story about the science fiction world of the future.
C. M. Kornbluth: Profile & Bibliography
There were a lot of famous names that came out of the 1930s group known as the Futurians: Isaac Asimov; James Blish; Frederik Pohl. The youngest was a boy named Cyril M. Kornbluth. In his short time he gave a great deal to the SF genre. Join us for a look at his life and work.
What Is Science Fiction?
If someone asked you to define science fiction, what would you say? There are so many opinions about this often misunderstood genre, how do you know which is correct? Well, that’s subjective, of course, but join us for five of our favorite and find out what SF is really all about.
The Luckiest Man in Denv (Discussion Article)
Change is never easy, and some will resist it to the bitter end. As we continue our series based on James E. Gunn’s “The Road to Science Fiction,” C.M. Kornbluth reveals a future time when two great American cities are engaged in a bitter war, the cause of which no one remembers. Against this backdrop is also a tale of betrayal as people climb the social ladder. Join us for a look. A rich tapestry awaits.
Soul Harvest: Left Behind Vol. 4 (Book Review)
With all pretense gone, the world chooses sides in the final battle between good and evil as Timothy LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins continue their apocalyptic series Left Behind. Does part four pull its weight in the overall saga? What event in the story ties it to SF? Come on in and find out.
Nicolae: Left Behind Vol. 3 (Book Review)
As the antichrist brings peace to the world and then snatches it away, the group known as the Tribulation Force continues to prepare for the judgements to come. Timothy LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins bring us the third installment in the Left Behind series.
October Sky (Movie Review)
When the Soviet Union launched Sputnik they fueled not only the Cold War but also the imagination a young American boy. Director Joe Johnston brings this true story to the big screen in this inspirational film.
Tribulation Force: Left Behind Vol. 2 (Book Review)
The Left Behind saga continues as Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins bring us the second installment in their apocalyptic tale. Does this chapter live up to the high standards set by the first? What points does it make about our current society?
Left Behind (Book Review)
What would you do if the person you love most suddenly vanished? What if you then found out that you had been left behind when the Rapture occurred? That's just what some captivating characters have to deal with in Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins's apocalyptic novel Left Behind.
Life As We Don't Know It (Part 5)
Could an advanced civilization have flourished on Earth before the days of humans? One SF story suggests it could have, and was cold-blooded at that. Join us as we continue our series on extraterrestrial life and take a look at the Star Trek: Voyager episode "Distant Origin."
Fire Ship (Book Review)
Diane Carey's contribution to the Star Trek book series "The Captain's Table" finds Captain Janeway alone on an alien ship. What do the things she encounters say about our own culture, and how well does Carey capture the spirit of Star Trek?
Mission to Mars (Movie Review)
Riding the recent wave of Martian Mania is this cinematic mission to the Red Planet, directed by Brian De Palma. It looks great on the surface, but does it hold up as the viewer is carried deeper into the journey?
Titan A.E. (Movie Review)
Just how good can animation look? Master of the trade Don Bluth tries to up the ante with this very un-Disney-like SF adventure. Was the experiment successful? We offer our thoughts.
The Omega Code (Movie Review)
Researchers claim that there are coded messages hidden within the Bible. This 1999 film takes the idea to the big screen. Does it hold the secrets to our future, as well as to great filmmaking? Come on in and find out.
SF and the 20th Century, Part 3: H.G. Wells
As the teaser for Star Wars: Episode I pointed out, every story has a beginning. So it is with the story of modern SF; and that beginning is a man named H.G. Wells. In part 3 of our SF and the 20th Century series we take a look at this great writer and visionary, and provide links to on-line copies of his stories.
Star Trek: The Best from Each Series
As we conclude our current look at Star Trek, find out what our picks are for the best of each series. We offer the Top 5 from TOS, TNG, DS9, and Voyager, as well as Honorable Mentions. Will you agree? Come on in and find out!
Star Trek: Best and Worst Episodes
There have been a lot of Star Trek episodes over the past 35 years, and everyone has a favorite. We’ve attempted to sort through the whole lot and put together a list of the ten best and five worst episodes ever. Find out if you agree.
SF and the 20th Century, Part 2: Star Trek
Perhaps the most influential, and without a doubt the most successful, SF of the 20th century has been Star Trek. Join me for a quick look at the world Gene Roddenberry created, and then find out if you agree with my ranking of the four series.
SF and the 20th Century, Part 1: Favorite Stories
As the 20th century comes to a close we begin a look back at the past 100 years of SF. In this first in a new series of articles I present ten of my all-time favorite stories and invite you to tell us about yours.
"Born of Man and Woman" (Discussion Article)
In this first article in a new series of short story discussions we take a look at Richard Matheson's "Born of Man and Woman." What is the message conveyed by this story, how does it compare to Frankenstein, and how does it apply to our society? You're invited to join in the discussion!
Richard Matheson: A Profile
A profile of SF writer Richard Matheson. This article is a supplement to the main discussion article on "Born of Man and Woman."
"Born of Man and Woman" (Plot Summary)
A plot summary of "Born of Man and Woman." This is a supplement to the main discussion article for those who are not familiar with the story.
An Invitation to Discussion
We'll soon begin working our way through a collection of SF short stories in an experiment to foster discussion on Suite101. Here's an introduction to this little project.
By the Light of the Moon: Science Fiction's 17th-Century Roots
How old is science fiction? Well, in one form or another it’s older than you probably think. Join us as we travel back to the 1600s and search for SF’s seventeenth-century roots as part of Suite101’s Seventeenth Century Event.
Beyond the Fall of Night (Book Review)
Many years after the original, Arthur C. Clarke’s Against the Fall of Night was followed by a sequel. But this new installment wasn’t written by Clarke, it was penned by Gregory Benford. Is it worthy of its predecessor?
Against the Fall of Night (Book Review)
Arthur C. Clarke has been one of the most prolific and successful science fiction writers of all time. But everyone has to start somewhere. What was his first work like? Come on in and find out as we take a look at Against the Fall of Night.
To Seek Out New Life: The Biology of Star Trek (Book Review)
Ever wonder how a Klingon can mate with a human, or a human with a Vulcan? How about the feasibility of a race like the Borg, or altering reality with a snap of your fingers like Q? Dr. Athena Andreadis explores these issues and more in this fun and engaging book that’ll probably teach you more than you ever learned in Biology 101!
The Forge of God (Book Review)
When one of Jupiter’s moons disappears, mankind’s search for extraterrestrial life takes a new and unexpected turn. Join our special guest author, Caroline Baker (Car), as she reviews Greg Bear’s novel the Forge of God.
A Fire Upon the Deep (Book Review)
If you’re tired of the same ol’ sci-fi rehash, here’s a delight from Vernor Vinge that turns the Milky Way into a place of wonders. Click on through and find out if this heart-pounding action and thought-provoking commentary is what you’ve been looking for.
A Last and First Book
This summer we asked readers to write an essay telling us what science fiction story is their favorite and why. Here we present the winning piece, written by Charles E. Stebbins, in which he discusses Olaf Stapeldon’s Last and First Men. We hope you enjoy this excellent essay. ,This summer we asked readers to write an essay telling us what science fiction story is their favorite and why. Here we present the winning piece, written by Charles E. Stebbins, in which he discusses Olaf Stapeldon’s Last and First Men. We hope you enjoy this excellent essay.
Memoirs of a Starchild
In a slight departure from the norm here at Science Fiction and Society, I'd like to share some of my experiences growing up with Star Trek. Find out how it affected my life and then share your own experiences in the discussion area as part of Mary Alward's Childhood Memories event.
Beyond Star Trek (Book Review)
Some amazing things happen in the science fiction we see in the theater and on our TVs. But what is really possible and what isn’t? Physicist Lawrence M. Krauss sets out to shed light on the mysterious yet exciting world of physics in this follow-up to his bestselling The Physics of Star Trek.
Independence Day (Movie Review)
It's been four years since giant death saucers blasted us into the hot summer night, but the popularity of Independence Day is still going strong. As a supplement to the article "Life As We Don't Know It," join us for a look at why this film captured the hearts of moviegoers worldwide.
Life As We Don't Know It (Part 4)
In this fourth and final installment, we discuss a few more aspects of Independence Day and then wrap up our look at Hollywood’s portrayal of extraterrestrial intelligence. So read these final thoughts and then share yours in the discussion area. (Special guest appearance by Star Trek: Voyager.
Life As We Don't Know It (Part 3)
Now that we’ve got a plausible look at first contact behind us, let’s turn to a less plausible one and discuss some generalizations that Hollywood makes about aliens and also the hit film Independence Day.,Now that we’ve got a plausible look at first contact behind us, let’s turn to a less plausible one and discuss some generalizations that Hollywood makes about aliens and also the hit film Independence Day.
Contact (Book Review)
When Carl Sagan and Ann Druyan’s plans for a major motion picture didn’t pan out, the great astronomer turned the story into what may be the greatest book ever written. As a supplement to our discussion in the article "Life As We Don’t Know It," we offer you our take on mankind’s first encounter with extraterrestrial life.
Contact (Movie Review)
It only took 17 years for this film to go from conception to the big screen, and along the way it was turned into a novel. How does the 1997 movie compare to the 1985 book? Here we offer you our thoughts on this great film as a supplement to our discussion in the article "Life As We Don’t Know It."
Life As We Don't Know It (Part 2)
In Part 2 of our look at Hollywood’s portrayal of extraterrestrial intelligence we continue our discussion of the film Contact and then get ready for our next movie, Independence Day, which will be covered in Part 3.
Life As We Don't Know It (Part 1)
In our continuing series of articles on the topic of extraterrestrial life, we look at how Hollywood has addressed the question "Are we alone?" In Part 1 of this article we discuss the film Contact.
The Long Dark Tea-time of the Soul (Book Review)
In this sequel to Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency, our favorite super sleuth makes a startling discovery when he takes on God. But which god? It’s another hilarious collection of trifles from the mind of Douglas Adams that’s even more delightful than its predecessor.
GoldiSpock and the Three Bears (Part 7)
When an unusual structure is found on an uninhabited planet, the crew of the Starship Enterprise beam down to investigate, and walk right into the middle of a big mystery. It’s a case that Sherlock Holmes would never touch. Find out what happens in episode 1 of Star Trek: The Lost Missions. a new original fiction series by the author of Science Fiction and Society. This is the conclusion to the story.
GoldiSpock and the Three Bears (Part 6)
When an unusual structure is found on an uninhabited planet, the crew of the Starship Enterprise beam down to investigate, and walk right into the middle of a big mystery. It’s a case that Sherlock Holmes would never touch. Find out what happens in episode 1 of Star Trek: The Lost Missions. a new original fiction series by the author of Science Fiction and Society. This is Part 6 of the continuing story.
GoldiSpock and the Three Bears (Part 5)
When an unusual structure is found on an uninhabited planet, the crew of the Starship Enterprise beam down to investigate, and walk right into the middle of a big mystery. It’s a case that Sherlock Holmes would never touch. Find out what happens in episode 1 of Star Trek: The Lost Missions. a new original fiction series by the author of Science Fiction and Society. This is Part 5 of the continuing story.
GoldiSpock and the Three Bears (Part 4)
When an unusual structure is found on an uninhabited planet, the crew of the Starship Enterprise beam down to investigate, and walk right into the middle of a big mystery. It’s a case that Sherlock Holmes would never touch. Find out what happens in episode 1 of Star Trek: The Lost Missions. a new original fiction series by the author of Science Fiction and Society. This is Part 4 of the continuing story.
GoldiSpock and the Three Bears (Part 3)
When an unusual structure is found on an uninhabited planet, the crew of the Starship Enterprise beam down to investigate, and walk right into the middle of a big mystery. It’s a case that Sherlock Holmes would never touch. Find out what happens in episode 1 of Star Trek: The Lost Missions. a new original fiction series by the author of Science Fiction and Society. This is Part 3 of the continuing story.
GoldiSpock and the Three Bears (Part 2)
When an unusual structure is found on an uninhabited planet, the crew of the Starship Enterprise beam down to investigate, and walk right into the middle of a big mystery. It’s a case that Sherlock Holmes would never touch. Find out what happens in episode 1 of Star Trek: The Lost Missions. a new original fiction series by the author of Science Fiction and Society. This is Part 2 of the continuing story.
GoldiSpock and the Three Bears
When an unusual structure is found on an uninhabited planet, the crew of the Starship Enterprise beam down to investigate, and walk right into the middle of a big mystery. It’s a case that Sherlock Holmes would never touch. Find out what happens in episode 1 of Star Trek: The Lost Missions. a new original fiction series by the author of Science Fiction and Society.
Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency (Book Review)
In this hilarious detective story by Douglas Adams, sleuth Dirk Gently sets out in search of a missing cat but ends up uncovering a ghost, a time-traveler, and the devastating secret of humankind. And he does it all despite being one of the most incompetent detectives in the history of literature. Come on in and get the whole scoop.
Zeus's Little Secret, Or Galileo and Clarke's Europan Vacation
At first glance, it seems obvious that Earth is the only locale in our solar system that harbors life. But is this really true? In the film version of "2001: A Space Odyssey" there was something afoot on the moons of Jupiter. Thanks to images from the Galileo spacecraft, it now appears that this might be true. The moon Europa may just be home to a vast ocean of liquid water. Was Clarke right all along?
To Say Nothing of the Dog (Book Review)
The place is England. The year is 2057... or is it 1888? The problem: a cat. Join us for a look at Connie Willis's 1999 Hugo Award-winning time-travel novel that's a comedy of errors and a study in the absurd of the most delightful kind.
Zen and the Art of Being Jedi
In developing Star Wars, George Lucas has pulled together diverse elements from numerous religions, mythologies, and cultures to create a rich universe that is a great reflection of who we are as a people. The principles of the Jedi are particularly interesting in that they heavily reflect the practices and principles of Buddhism. Find out something that has been known in Asia for millennia and learn about Zen and the Art of Being Jedi.
Deus X (Book Review)
On a dying earth, civilization seeks its final salvation in a vast electronic network called the Big Board while the Roman Catholic Church confronts the greatest challenge it has ever known—a challenge that could be its executioner. This unique novel by Norman Spinrad tackles some very touchy issues including environmental destruction and God Himself.
When Atlas Shrugged
There’s been a lot of talk this past decade about the danger posed to Earth by asteroids and comets. Impacts have happened before and they will happen again. What effect would it have on mankind, what’s being done to prevent it, and how has science fiction helped bring it to the attention of those in charge?
Cradle (Book Review)
Arthur C. Clarke’s first collaborative fiction effort was less than stellar. His pairing with Gentry Lee is best known for the three Rama sequels, but this is where it all began.
The Hammer of God (Book Review)
Before there was Deep Impact, Armageddon, and Asteroid there was this Arthur C. Clarke tale about death and destruction from the sky and mankind’s attempts to avert it.
Everything I Think I See -- Part 3: Of Mind and Matter
There are several paranormal phenomena that have become an important part of late 20th-century culture. Among these are UFOs and alien abductions. Are these things real, or do we create them in our mind, projecting what we want to see into a reality that’s all our own? In part 3 of 3, we offer one possible explanation.
Galileo's Daughter (Book Review)
Award-winning science writer Dava Sobel follows up her 1995 hit "Longitude" with this great book that traces Galileo’s professional and family life from his early days through his ordeals with the Inquisition. Based on letters written to the scientist by his daughter, Suor Maria Celeste.
Everything I Think I See -- Part 2: From Fiction's Watchtower
In part 2 of 3 we take a look at how the writers of Star Trek have incorporated real-life science into the series. Featured are the DS9 episode "If Wishes Were Horses" and the TNG episode "All Good Things..." plus an examination of transporters and torpedoes.
Future Perfect: How Star Trek Conquered Planet Earth (Review)
Some people see Star Trek as great fun for kids. Some people see it as more. In this great little book, travel writer Jeff Greenwald journeys to the far corners of the globe to find out what Star Trek means to the average person and how it influences the way they live.
Everything I Think I See -- Part 1: The Science of Observing
You've probably heard people say, "Life is what you make of it." Or how about, "Life is but a dream." In the years to come, science might just prove them right. In Part 1 of 3, find out what quantum theory has to say about this interesting topic and how we may, in fact, create our own reality. It's all science that frequently makes its way into our favorite SF stories.
Timeline (Book Review)
Michael Crichton's new time travel thriller takes readers on a roller coaster ride through the fields of medieval France, with a pinch quantum mechanics and a megalomaniacal CEO thrown in for good measure.
Pastwatch: The Redemption of Christopher Columbus (Book Review)
Do you think history is full of injustices? What if you could change it? In his novel Pastwatch: The Redemption of Christopher Columbus, Orson Scott Card paints an alternate history where the Spanish conquest of the Caribbean region never happened.
Down To Earth: An Introduction to Science Fiction and Society
Science fiction means different things to different people. Beneath the entertaining surface there are much deeper forces at work. Journey into the depths of the genre in this introduction to Science Fiction and Society.