Exploring science through science fiction Barry B. Luokkala

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Luokkala, Barry B., author.

Series:

Science and fiction (Springer (Firm))

Science and Fiction 2197-1188

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Science in motion pictures.

Science fiction films.

Science fiction television programs.

Science in mass media.

Literature and science.

Genre:

Science fiction films

Science fiction television programs

Physical Description:

1 online resource

Place of Publication:

New York, NY Springer 2014

Summary:

How does Einstein's description of space and time compare with Dr. Who? Can James Bond really escape from an armor-plated railroad car by cutting through the floor with a laser concealed in a wristwatch? What would it take to create a fully-intelligent android, such as Star Trek's Commander Data? How might we discover intelligent civilizations on other planets in the galaxy? Is human teleportation possible? Will our technological society ever reach the point at which it becomes lawful to discriminate on the basis of genetic information, as in the movie GATTACA? Exploring Science Through Science Fiction addresses these and other interesting questions, using science fiction as a springboard for discussing fundamental science concepts and cutting-edge science research. The book is designed as a primary text for a college-level course which should appeal to students in the fine arts and humanities as well as to science and engineering students. It includes references to original research papers, landmark scientific publications and technical documents, as well as a broad range of science literature at a more popular level. With over 180 references to specific scenes in 130 sci-fi movies and TV episodes, spanning over 100 years of cinematic history, it should be an enjoyable read for anyone with an interest in science and science fiction

Contents:

Introduction: Discerning the Real, the Possible and the Impossible

What is the Nature of Space and Time? (the physics of space travel and time travel)

What is the Universe Made of? (matter, energy and interactions)

Can a Machine Become Self-Aware? (the sciences of computing and cognition)

Are We Alone in the Universe? (the search for extraterrestrial intelligence)

What does it Mean to be Human? (biological sciences, biotechnology and other considerations)

How do We Solve Our Problems? (science, technology and society)

What Lies Ahead? (the future of our technological society)

Appendix A: Catalog of Movies Cited

Appendix B: Catalog of Television Series Episodes Cited

Appendix C: Catalog of YouTube Videos Cited

Appendix D: Solutions to Estimation Problems

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references and index

Online resource; title from PDF title page (SpringerLink, viewed October 28, 2013)

Other Format:

Print version Exploring science through science fiction

ISBN:

9781461478911

146147891X

1306163307

9781306163309

1461478901

9781461478904

OCLC:

864438717

Access Restriction:

Restricted for use by site license