DownloadThe Portobello Bookshop Gift Guide 2024

Science Fiction and the Moral Imagination

Visions, Minds, Ethics

Russell Blackford author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Springer International Publishing AG

Published:14th Sep '17

Should be back in stock very soon

Science Fiction and the Moral Imagination cover

In this highly original book, Russell Blackford discusses the intersection of science fiction and humanity’s moral imagination. With the rise of science and technology in the 19th century, and our continually improving understanding of the cosmos, writers and thinkers soon began to imagine futures greatly different from the present. Science fiction was born out of the realization that future technoscientific advances could dramatically change the world. Along with the developments described in modern science fiction - space societies, conscious machines, and upgraded human bodies, to name but a few - come a new set of ethical challenges and new forms of ethics. Blackford identifies these issues and their reflection in science fiction. His fascinating book will appeal to anyone with an interest in philosophy or science fiction, or in how they interact.

“This is a seasoned, balanced analysis of a major issue in our thinking about the future, seen through the lens of science fiction, a central art of our time. Everyone from humanists to technologists should study these ideas and examples. Blackford’s book is wise and savvy, and a delight to read as well.”

Greg Benford, author of Timescape.

“Blackford (Univ. of Newcastle, Australia) presents a compelling exploration of the relationship between major science fiction works and tenets of moral philosophy. … A worthy addition to science fiction history and criticism collections, this work will be of value to audiences at a range of levels. Summing Up: Highly recommended. All readers.” (K. D. Winward, Choice, Vol. 55 (10), June, 2018)

ISBN: 9783319616834

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: unknown

204 pages

1st ed. 2017