The Cautionary Tale of Science Fiction (SF)

One of the many beautiful things about “good” science fiction is it’s ability to do so much and to touch so many topics. Hard science fiction touched STEM out of definition, although the science that many outlets of SF demonstrate is not exactly valid or “possible” at the moment.

In addition to STEM, SF also has qualities that can be used for other cases of learning. Social and ethical implications are main topics that are often investigated in SF. A case may be presented where a society has created an advanced science or technology and they put it to use. Then comes the questions “Is this Right?” and “should this be used?”. The SF work then goes on to show the downfall of the society or their resolution to the conflict.

Many advancements that society makes are not controversial. Many people out side of the field would argue about things like a newly designed circuit or studying the cross pollination of coffee plants. People would, however, argue about global warming and cloning.

Technology is also not safe. What do people think about developing weapons or artificial intelligence? Although it may be true in SF and fantasy, we cannot predict the future. We cannot know with any certainty what the new STEM controversies will be 50 years from now. Who do you prepare future STEM professionals? How do you prepare the public?

Hopefully we will never have to deal with a robot apocalypse, but SF can still offer a cautionary tale to those who are willing to listen