http://davidbrin.blogspot.com/2011/10/how-to-define-science-fiction.html
I've put up some rather elaborate definitions before, but here's a good David Brin article on how SF has been preceived and defined over the years.
Some interesting points: Some of things I've espoused, that positive viewpoints in SF are just as valid as the negative cautionary tales. Star Trek itself is brought up in the article as a good example of this. Amusing part:
I've put up some rather elaborate definitions before, but here's a good David Brin article on how SF has been preceived and defined over the years.
Some interesting points: Some of things I've espoused, that positive viewpoints in SF are just as valid as the negative cautionary tales. Star Trek itself is brought up in the article as a good example of this. Amusing part:
...and some revealing truths....Rejection of Optimism
Apparently not. Almost like an immunal rejection to the 1960s can-do spirit of Star Trek, wave after wave of stylish grouches swarmed over science fiction itself, claiming to have discovered dark cynicism as something fresh and original.
I think this is a societal problem too, not just in SF...too many people looking towards the past, even the "look ahead" West often has this issue.Yet, I've found that whole notion of progress is so anathema, to such a vast range of people, that something deeply inherent in human nature must be involved. The widest cultural gap I've ever seen, about something absolutely fundamental, it explains why so many feel reflex hostility toward science fiction. Especially those who believe in "eternal verities."
Example: when I spoke about SF in China, nearly all the readers, publishers and press folk seemed deeply worried that any hint of optimism in literature might insult their ancestors, by implying generations can improve with time.