Sci-Phi: Science Fiction as Philosophy

The science fiction genre has become increasingly influential in mainstream popular culture, evolving into one of the most engaging storytelling tools we use to think about technology and consider the shape of the future. Along the way, it has also become one of the major lenses we use to explore important philosophical questions.

The origins of science fiction are most often thought to trace to Mary Shelley's novel Frankenstein, a story born from a night of spooky tale-telling by the fireside that explores scientific, moral, and ethical questions that were of great concern in the 19th century - and that continue to resonate today. And, although novels and short stories built the foundations of science fiction, film and television have emerged as equally powerful, experimental, and enjoyable ways to experience the genre. Even as far back as the silent era, films like Fritz Lang's Metropolis have used science fiction to tell stories that explore many facets of human experience.

In Sci-Phi: Science Fiction as Philosophy, Professor of Philosophy David Kyle Johnson, of King's College, takes you on a 24-lecture exploration of the final frontiers of philosophy across several decades of science fiction in film and television. From big-budget blockbusters to television series featuring aliens in rubber masks, Professor Johnson finds food for philosophical thought in a wide range of stories. By looking at serious questions through astonishing tales and astounding technologies, you will see how science fiction allows us to consider immense, vital - and sometimes controversial - ideas with a rare combination of engagement and critical distance.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your Library section along with the audio.

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Fulfilling, accessible, and challenging

While Dr. Johnson opens his series with an admission worthy of a 5-second cringe, he takes the listener through a fair and enthralling catalogue of philosophical ideas across history by using various accessible sci-fi episodes and narratives that the listener can watch ( and sometimes read) as ‘homework’. He engages the role of the viewer/listener to assume the role of an armchair philosopher to approach each following lecture topic. He has made an important contribution towards bridging the everyday sci-fi reader (and mere fiction reader) with the questions and answers that makes this genre worth the modern world’s attention.

Best philosophy course ever

This course references dozens of science fiction films and discusses their reflective lessons. Then the professor uses traditional philosophers to explain them.
Perfect for anyone that wants to overly cite Star Wars or Star Trek in lieu of the traditional philosophers.

Just wish it was longer

So many things to discuss in sci-fi from a philosophical standpoint. I like that the author not only resorts to the cult classics but also to shows and movies as recent as 2017

Worth your time!

One of my favorite great courses to date. David K Johnson explains difficult concepts eloquently in a manner non philosophers can understand.

Another excellent addition to the Great Courses.

A must-have for anyone interested in sci-fi (SF). And to blend it with philosophy so well adds depth and more meaning to beloved and classic SF stories. The fact there are assignments to this course (watch x movie before the next lecture) makes the lecture even more engaging. For some of these movies, I'd go back again and watch AFTER the lecture. The lectures are also topical and relevant. Questions about A.I. and the future of artificial life are legitimate questions that will need to be faced by we as a human race in the very near future. The best money ever spend on Audible.