Special Topics in Literary Theory
Class Information
Instructor: Milburn, Colin
CRN: 62147
Time: M 3:10-6:00
Breadth: Later American
Focus: Genre, Interdiscipline, Method, Theory
Description
This seminar will focus on the functions of science fiction in the history of science. During the term, we will study the evolution of science fiction as a literary genre and a cultural discourse from the nineteenth century to the present. At the same time, we will investigate the roles of speculation and extrapolation in the practice of science, considering science fiction as a resource for experimental research. A series of case studies will illuminate the complex intersections of fact and fabulation: rocket science and astronautics; high-energy physics and nuclear fictions; cybernetics and networked computing; biotechnology and nanotechnology. Major critical approaches to science fiction will be introduced alongside theories and methods from science and technology studies (STS). The seminar will emphasize mixed-methods approaches to interdisciplinary research questions.