Science fiction incorporates scientific ideas, theories or technologies that are used to extrapolate current trends in science and society into possible future scenarios, which may involve extraterrestrial beings or settings. It is speculative literature that explores "what if" questions through imaginative worlds. Hard science fiction places importance on science concepts like space travel, genetics, and future technologies, while soft science fiction incorporates social sciences to explore themes about humanity, our place in the universe, and the potential impacts of science.

1. Science Fiction “Fantasy is the impossible made probable. Science Fiction is the improbable made possible.” Rod Serling

2. Sci Fi Fantasy Incorporates scientific ideas, theories or technologies Current trends in science and society are extrapolated into future scenarios May involve extraterrestrial beings or settings Incorporates magical and/or mythological ideas Set in imaginary times and places May involve supernatural beings and fantastic settings Imaginary worlds Speculative “What If” Literature of Ideas

3. Science Fact in Science Fiction HARD Sci-Fi places a great deal of importance on science concepts and principles: Space travel Genetic engineering Extraterrestrial life Time travel Robotics Future technologies SOFT Sci-Fi places less importance on traditional science concepts, but incorporates the “soft” sciences: Psychology and Parapsychology (ESP, telepathy) Sociology (utopias, exotic cultures) Anthropology (human behavior in futuristic situations)

4. Major Themes in Science Fiction What does it mean to be human? What is our place in the universe? What are the limits of science and/or technology? What is the potential of science for good? For evil? What might the future look like? What if history had happened differently?