Students discuss science fiction, especially early science fiction, that depicts the alien as hostile to humans and often as intrinsically evil. Week 6 The Angelic Alien. Students examine science fiction that portrays the alien as a purer life form than mankind. A Space Odyssey by Arthur C. Clarke and Stranger in a Strange Land by Robert Heinlein. Week 7 Future Perfect.
Students read and discuss science fiction that depicts a future made better by science.
Childhood's End by Arthur C. Clarke. Week 8 Future Shock. Student concentrate on a future marred by scientific advances, including advances in weaponry. Blade Runner, The Road Warrior . The Human Brain, Works that explore the potential of the human mind to control physical as well as psychic phenomena are read and discussed.