ENGL 321 - Science Fiction as Social Critique: Identity, Ideology, Genre

FC ARHU CD WINT

4 credits
In what ways is science fictions social critique reliant on features unique to the genre, such as scientific advancements, cognitive estrangement, and subjunctivity? Or is science fiction thinking (Brooks Landons term) simply a product of the dominant values shared within the community of sf readers and writers? This course will read sf with an eye to engaging Carl Freedmans argument that critical theory and science fiction [are] each a version of the other. Well identify the ways sf explores the same questions and problems as critical theory, especially feminism, queer & gender theory, ecocriticism, Marxism, and ideology critique. American, Post-1900.
Prerequisites & Notes: For complete prerequisites, please refer to the English Program section titled ‘Advanced Courses.’