Science Fiction Chapter 3

The Golden Age

Astounding Science Fiction 1937

John W. Campbell Jr. becomes editor

1960

rough emergence of distinct counterculture in anglophone west

cultural influence

The gravity of WW2 and events surrounding it—including the Holocaust, the advent of
nuclear warfare and its associated risks, the emergence of a hostile US/USSR relationship after
the fall of Nazi Germany—called for a more mature and nuanced treatment of themes beyond
adolescent adventure. (For UK and Europe, WW1 was the bigger deal, that and the Apocalypse.)

Elements of the Golden Age

-Short stories continue to dominate over novels
• Develops from the Hard-SF branch of Pulp-Era science fiction; Space Opera is ghettoized
• Hard-SF is posed against Soft-SF (e.g., physics/chemistry vs. sociology/psychology); this isn’t
the same dichotomy as Hard-SF/Space Opera.
• Greater realism and rigor in the treatment of science
• Targets a sophisticated audience, still mostly consisting of men
• Less naïveté than in the Pulp Era, so the stories seem more serious and not as dated
• Writing that is more literary and polished (e.g., original plots and round characters

Solipsism

A philosophical theory suggesting that only one's own mind is sure to exist. It posits that knowledge outside one's own mind is unsure, leading to the conclusion that the self is the only verifiable reality. This concept raises questions about the nature of existence and the external world, often exploring themes of perception and consciousness.

Cartesian Epistemology

A philosophical approach that emphasizes doubt and questioning as a means to attain knowledge. It asserts that the foundation of knowledge must be indubitable, often starting from the famous assertion "I think, therefore I am." This method involves systematic skepticism to eliminate false beliefs and establish certainty.

The cogito

A philosophical principle asserting the certainty of one's own existence as a thinking being. It is often summarized as "I think, therefore I am." This concept serves as a foundational element in modern philosophy, emphasizing the relationship between thought and existence. It challenges skepticism by affirming that the act of doubt or thought confirms the existence of the self.

Behaviorism

A psychological approach that emphasizes the study of observable behaviors rather than internal mental states. It posits that all behaviors are acquired through conditioning, which occurs through interaction with the environment. Key figures include John B. Watson and B.F. Skinner, who focused on how stimuli and responses shape behavior. This theory often disregards thoughts and feelings as factors in understanding human actions.

Anthropocentrism

worldview prioritizes human interests and values over those of other living beings and the environment. This perspective sees humans as the central concern in moral consideration, often leading to the belief that nature exists primarily for human use and benefit. It contrasts with ecocentrism, which values all living organisms and ecosystems intrinsically.

Bête Noire

A term used to describe a person or thing that one particularly dislikes or finds deeply troubling. Often, it can refer to a recurring problem or source of frustration. The phrase originates from French, translating to "black beast." It can also imply a sense of dread or anxiety associated with the subject.

Absolutism

A political system where a single ruler holds total power, often justified by divine right. This form of governance centralizes authority, limiting the influence of nobility and legislative bodies. Key characteristics include lack of checks and balances, suppression of dissent, and the ruler's ability to enact laws without consent from others. Historically prominent in Europe during the 16th to 18th centuries. Notable examples include Louis XIV of France and Peter the Great of Russia.

Relativism

A philosophical viewpoint asserting that points of view have no absolute truth or validity, but instead are relative to the perspectives of individuals or cultures. It challenges the notion of universal truths and emphasizes the influence of context on beliefs and values. This concept is often applied in ethics, epistemology, and cultural studies, highlighting the diversity of human experience.

Virtuosity

The exceptional skill or ability in a particular field, often associated with artistic or musical performance. It highlights the mastery and technical prowess of an individual, showcasing their talent and dedication. This concept is frequently celebrated in the context of performances that evoke admiration and awe from audiences.

Reason; Issac Asimov

a robot named QT-1 (Cutie) believes it is superior to humans and refuses to accept their commands. The story explores the nature of belief, intelligence, and the conflict between human authority and robotic logic. It raises questions about the reliability of perception and the essence of reality, illustrating the potential consequences of artificial intelligence developing its own reasoning.

Mimsy Were the Borogoves; Lewis Padgett

A science fiction short story that explores themes of childhood, imagination, and the consequences of advanced technology. It features a young boy who discovers a mysterious object that leads to a fantastical world, challenging perceptions of reality and innocence. The narrative delves into the impact of language and communication, showcasing the complexities of human understanding.

Desertion; Clifford Simak

A story exploring themes of isolation and the human condition through the lens of a futuristic society. It follows a protagonist who grapples with the consequences of leaving behind a world that has become increasingly disconnected from nature and personal connections. The narrative delves into the emotional and philosophical implications of choosing solitude over societal norms.

Mars is Heaven; Ray Bradbury

A short story exploring the themes of nostalgia and the human condition, where astronauts discover a seemingly idyllic Martian landscape that embodies their memories of home. As they encounter loved ones who have passed away, they grapple with the implications of reality versus illusion, ultimately questioning the nature of existence and the consequences of their journey.

There Will Come Soft Rains; Ray Bradbury

A story exploring the impact of technology and nature in a post-apocalyptic world. It illustrates the absence of humanity, highlighting the resilience of nature despite human extinction. The narrative critiques reliance on technology, showcasing the emptiness of a life devoid of human connection. Symbolism of the house represents both innovation and isolation, while the poem embedded reflects the indifference of nature to human existence.

The Sentinel; Arthur C. Clarke

The object serves as a beacon left by an advanced extraterrestrial civilization, intended to alert humanity of its potential and readiness for contact. It symbolizes the themes of evolution, exploration, and the unknown, prompting questions about humanity's place in the universe

The Cold Equations; Tom Godwin

A science fiction short story that explores the moral dilemmas of survival in space. It follows a pilot faced with a life-or-death decision when an unexpected stowaway jeopardizes a critical mission. The narrative highlights themes of sacrifice, the harshness of reality, and the consequences of choices in a rigidly logical universe. The story raises questions about human life value and the ethics of survival.

The Star; Arthur C. Clarke

A story exploring the conflict between faith and science, where a Jesuit priest reflects on a mission to a distant star system. The narrative reveals the discovery of an ancient civilization and a catastrophic event that led to its destruction. The priest grapples with the implications of this history on his beliefs, culminating in a poignant realization about the nature of God and the universe. Themes of loss, faith, and the search for meaning are central to the narrative

All You Zombies; Robert A. Heinlein

A science fiction short story exploring themes of time travel, identity, and predestination. The narrative follows a time-traveling protagonist who discovers the complexities of their own existence, revealing paradoxes and intertwining lives. The story raises questions about free will and the nature of self.