Science Fiction: An Apologetic

Last night, ABC aired the first in what is destined to become a short-lived anthology series called "Masters of Science Fiction." Basically, each week they'll show a stand-alone show based off of a science-fiction writer's work.

Those who know me know I love this sort of thing, but may have difficulty knowing why. My favorite shows, both past and present, have a strong scifi leaning (Quantum Leap, Battlestar Galactica, Star Trek: TNG, Lost, Heroes, etc.). Sure, there's the futuristic elements that I like, the special effects and element of wonder, but I don't think that's the primary draw for me.

I believe that science fiction can raise questions about our present values that perhaps we may not see immediately. They can make us think about the world around us in new ways, discovering new understanding. I think Battlestar Galactica (the new one) is a great example. One episode has more real drama than a season's worth of Grey's Anatomy, but I think many people are turned off because it has robots and is set in space instead of a law firm or a hospital.

By seeing how humans react in these settings, we get a glimpse of ourselves as well. And because the setting is so different, it allows us to approach the values objectively. We are forced to listen to the characters' perspectives, their values and morals, before we make a judgment about them.

BSG asks serious questions about the war on terror; ST:TNG, about the nature of belonging and cultures; Quantum Leap, about meaning and significance, X-Men, about acceptance and tolerance. As a follower of Christ, I can't help but think about these things as well. For hundreds of years, there's been a surge in science fiction on the eve of great changes in our society. This trend continues today, as post-modernism is shaping our culture.

So, all these posts about science fiction and quantum theory and other geek things aren't simply the response of a mind fascinated with the future. It comes from a heart that is fascinated with people, how we live and what future we create. As a follower of Christ, it just seems natural.