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Sci-Phi: Science Fiction as Philosophy cover art

Sci-Phi: Science Fiction as Philosophy

By: The Great Courses
Narrated by: Professor David K. Johnson PhD University of Oklahoma
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Summary

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.  

©2018 The Great Courses (P)2018 The Teaching Company, LLC

What listeners say about Sci-Phi: Science Fiction as Philosophy

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If you love sci fi you should listen to this book.

Just outstanding. Cleverly interweaves classic and contemporary sci fi with well argued philosophy. I couldn't stop listening.

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8 people found this helpful

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  • 20-10-18

Great course

A very interesting set of lectures, accessible for beginners to the subject and interesting enough to prompt further learning!

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4 people found this helpful

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Definitely worth listening to

I really enjoyed this course. Anyone interested in philosophy and science fiction should listen to this. I would point out To the author that the many worlds theory of quantum mechanics doesn’t involve universes being “created” at the branch points, any more than a universe could be “created’ by an observation. Also unfair to Matt Ridley and Luke warmers who recognise that only economic wealth can ultimately solve our climate change problems.

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2 people found this helpful

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Loved it. I will be revisiting it again I'm sure

I have always loved sci fi particularly because good sci fi pushes philosophical boundaries and ideas. This book is brilliant. For me, it expanded on ideas I have previously considered and provided me with many more that I hadn't. Great narration to boot. Fully recommend to anyone who likes philosophy, sci fi or movies. Don't feel you have to be a sci fi geek to like this book.

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1 person found this helpful

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Best audiobook ever. Loved it, him & all the sciFi

He is absolutely wonderfull. If you find any of the really big questions worth thinking about, you wil love this guy.
Thank you sir.

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1 person found this helpful

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As insightful as it is accessible

You don't have to be sci-fi nerd to get a lot out of this course, just accept that media and stories have critical value. The lecturer sets a strident page but it's very clear and easy to follow, trotting through a much wider range of key philosophical, and scientific, concepts than I expected going in. I love this course.

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1 person found this helpful

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A new dimension

A great introduction to philosophy using Scifi as a backdrop, sometimes there's a little bit of over thinking but apparently that's just my epistemological perspective 🌝. I recommend it to Scifi buffs looking for a different perspective on some the classics. One of the takeaways for me was an understanding of the value of philosophy, I had thought it was just old men talking too much, memorable moment, the discussion on simulated worlds.

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1 person found this helpful

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Thought provoking stuff

Although I don’t agree with a few areas i think the course is entertaining and covers a broad range of both sci and phi! I would recommend even if it’s only to challenge both your own and the author’s views. I’ve seen almost all of the films discussed and this some insights I hadn’t considered when watching before. The author acknowledges a lot of material that isn’t covered and it would be good to have a follow up or see him discuss/debate some of these.

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1 person found this helpful

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Observant, engaged and engaging

A thorough and nuanced introduction to philosophy via Sci films I can’t imagine anyone else could deliver without same level of knowledge, insight and enthusiasm without coming across as dour, patronising or American annoying. I got the sense that he didn’t mind being questioned... that this was a continual life of learning. If only all teachers and lecturers could move as laterally as this!

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1 person found this helpful

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Superb whistle-stop tour of Sci-Fi & Philosophy

Thoroughly enjoyed this vast in scope survey which highlights the value of science fiction and importance of philosophy.

Clevery structured and peppered with fascinating insights and humerous, thought-provoking anecdotes throughout. A must-listen for fans of Dr. Who and Star Trek!

As Dr Spock famously said:
"Logic is the beginning of Wisdom... not the end!"

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1 person found this helpful