Feb 24th, 2025 Meetup on humanism in science fiction - Humanist Sci-Fi Characteristics
Humanist science fiction often emphasizes the rights, responsibilities, and ultimate value of people within a naturalistic framework, focusing on reason and compassion
This genre typically avoids supernatural beliefs and instead explores the potential for human development through scientific and ethical means.
For instance, the works of authors like Philip K. Dick and Isaac Asimov are often cited as humanist because they depict characters struggling with their humanity and dignity, rather than reverting to a pre-human or post-human state
In contrast, some science fiction can be seen as less humanist when it embraces transcendence or transformation into something non-human For example, Arthur C. Clarke’s “Rendezvous With Rama” and “2001: A Space Odyssey” feature characters encountering entities that are beyond human comprehension, leading to a transformation that might be seen as a rejection of humanist values
Examples of humanist science fiction include:
Star Trek: This series is often considered a prime example of humanist science fiction, depicting a future where humans and other species work together to solve problems through reason and cooperation, rather than conflict or supernatural intervention
Philip K. Dick’s works: Dick’s stories, such as “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?”, often explore the humanity of characters in a dystopian future, emphasizing the importance of empathy and compassion
Marina J. Lostetter’s “Noumenon”: This novel is shelved as humanist science fiction, focusing on characters navigating a complex, scientifically grounded universe while maintaining their humanity
Anne Charnock’s “Dreams Before the Start of Time”: Another example of humanist science fiction, this book explores the lives of characters in a future society, highlighting the importance of human values and ethics
These examples illustrate how humanist science fiction can prioritize the human experience and values, even as it explores futuristic or alien settings.
Future Topics
Which SciFi is most realistic depiction of the future?
If we cannot control AGI and its effects then..
1984 leads to
Enemy of the State leads to
Person of Interest tv series
Currently CCTV rollout and adoption by one authoritative states (we know which one) is already reality
Efforts to compete with that nation means human liberties could be circumvented especially if the left cannot compete with the right