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 FiFantasyIncorporates scientific ideas, theories or technologiesCurrent trends in science and society are extrapolated into future scenariosMay involve extraterrestrial beings or settingsIncorporates magical and/or mythological ideas Set in imaginary times and placesMay involve supernatural beings and fantastic settingsImaginary worldsSpeculative“What If”Literature of Ideas

3. Science Fact in Science FictionHARD Sci-Fi places a great deal of importance on science concepts and principles:Space travelGenetic engineeringExtraterrestrial lifeTime travelRoboticsFuture technologiesSOFT 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 FictionWhat 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?