Watch Sci-Phi: Science Fiction as Philosophy

  • 2018
  • 1 Season

Sci-Phi: Science Fiction as Philosophy from The Great Courses Signature Collection brings together two intriguing topics – science fiction and philosophy – to explore the big ideas that drive both fields. Hosted by David Kyle Johnson, a philosopher and author of multiple books on the intersection of popular culture and philosophy, the course consists of 24 lectures that investigate the fundamental philosophical concepts that underpin science fiction stories.

The show aims to show how science fiction is an ideal platform to examine philosophical questions, such as the nature of reality, free will, and the ethics of artificial intelligence. Science fiction stories have always been known for their ability to speculate on our future, both as individuals and as a species. By investigating the philosophical themes that authors use in those stories, this course aims to help viewers better understand the philosophical ideas that accompany them.

Throughout the series, Johnson takes us on a tour of classic sci-fi stories from writers such as Isaac Asimov, Philip K. Dick, and Frank Herbert. He breaks down the philosophical ideas presented in each story and gives viewers a deeper understanding of the complex questions that these works were trying to explore.

The course begins with a survey of some of the most famous sci-fi stories and movies, such as "Blade Runner," "The Matrix," and "Star Wars." Johnson uses each of these stories to introduce viewers to essential concepts in philosophy, such as the nature of reality, the problem of free will, and the nature of consciousness. He then delves more deeply into other stories and examines the essential philosophy that lies behind each of them.

For instance, in one lecture, Johnson examines the question of identity, looking at how scientists and writers have tried to define what it means to be human. Using examples from stories like "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?" and "Bicentennial Man," he explores the question of whether human consciousness can exist in artificial beings.

Another lecture takes on the issue of time travel and explores the philosophical implications of traveling through time. Johnson uses Christopher Nolan's film "Interstellar" as a starting point and goes on to examine other time travel stories, such as H.G. Wells' "The Time Machine," to explore how philosophical ideas can be used to explain the possibilities (and limitations) of time travel.

Throughout the series, Johnson uses humor and pop culture references to make complex philosophical concepts more accessible and understandable. His style is both engaging and humorous, and he knows how to keep viewers invested in the ideas he is presenting. He is able to balance the weight of complex ideas with a lighthearted approach to storytelling, making the show both easy to watch and intellectually engaging.

One of the standout features of Sci-Phi: Science Fiction as Philosophy is its focus on analyzing the various philosophical viewpoints that the stories evoke. Johnson doesn't just present the ideas in the stories, he also offers different ways to interpret them. For example, in a lecture on "The Minority Report," he offers multiple interpretations of predestination and free will to reflect the complexity of the philosophical issues the story engenders.

In addition to examining individual sci-fi stories, the show also offers a broader look at how philosophy and pop culture intersect. Johnson offers an overview of how philosophers have historically used popular culture to illustrate their ideas, such as Socrates' use of Greek myths to discuss moral philosophy. He lays out the reasons why pop culture is such a useful tool for discussing philosophy and suggests that, perhaps, pop culture has even surpassed traditional academic philosophical texts in terms of cultural reach.

Overall, Sci-Phi: Science Fiction as Philosophy is a fascinating series for anyone interested in either philosophy or science fiction. Johnson's enthusiasm for both fields is contagious, and his ability to unpack complex philosophical ideas in a way that is accessible and relatable is impressive. By the end of the course, viewers will have a richer understanding of the philosophical themes that lurk beneath the surface of their favorite sci-fi stories, and perhaps, a newfound appreciation for how important the genre is in exploring the big ideas that drive our society.

Sci-Phi: Science Fiction as Philosophy is a series that ran for 1 seasons (24 episodes) between May 25, 2018 and on The Great Courses Signature Collection

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Seasons
Kubrick's 2001 and Nietzsche's Übermensch
24. Kubrick's 2001 and Nietzsche's Übermensch
May 25, 2018
Analyze one of the most famous - and possibly weirdest - sci-fi films of all time: 2001: A Space Odyssey. Consider the imagery and ideas of Kubrick's vision and determine whether, as some suggest, it reflects the concept of Friedrich Nietzsche's Übermensch. Close with a brief glimpse of the science fiction worlds still waiting for you to explore them.
The Handmaid's Tale: Feminism and Religion
23. The Handmaid's Tale: Feminism and Religion
May 25, 2018
The television adaptation of Margaret Atwood's novel The Handmaid's Tale offers a grim vision of a future in which religious fanaticism reshapes the US into a misogynist totalitarian state. Professor Johnson provides a brief overview of the meaning(s) and different stages of feminism in the 20th century and examines what the disenfranchisement of women says about the uses and abuses of power.
Gattaca and the Ethics of Reproduction
22. Gattaca and the Ethics of Reproduction
May 25, 2018
Dive into the ethical questions of "designer babies," genetic manipulation, and human evolution at the heart of the movie Gattaca, a film which NASA once considered one of the most plausible sci-fi films ever made. Then, turn your attention to a similar issue as you explore the philosophical and scientific ins and outs of cloning, via the Canadian TV show Orphan Black.
Soylent Green: Overpopulation and Euthanasia
21. Soylent Green: Overpopulation and Euthanasia
May 25, 2018
When is it acceptable to end your own life? With the rising threat of overpopulation on Earth in the future, see what the 1970s film Soylent Green offers as a solution to dwindling space and resources. Also, consider other ways societies, in both science fiction and the real world, tackle the moral issues of euthanasia (both self-chosen and coerced) and population control.
Snowpiercer and Climate Change
20. Snowpiercer and Climate Change
May 25, 2018
Open this lecture with a look at how and why we get scientific information from experts and why what we should conclude about climate change is as much of a philosophical issue as it is a scientific one. Then, through the film Snowpiercer, take a look at how a lukewarm approach to pressing issues can create narratives of false security and cast doubt on real dangers that will have consequences.
Capitalism in Metropolis, Elysium, and Panem
19. Capitalism in Metropolis, Elysium, and Panem
May 25, 2018
Capitalism is an economic philosophy as much as it is a practical system and, while it has many benefits, the capitalist system also has its share of pitfalls and ethical quandaries. Looking at the dystopian visions of the sci-fi films Metropolis, Elysium, and The Hunger Games, you will dive into the issue of balance and understand why an unregulated free market is a recipe for inequality.
The Prime Directive and Postcolonialism
18. The Prime Directive and Postcolonialism
May 25, 2018
What can science fiction tell us about the dangers of colonialism and moral relativism? Take a look at the Prime Directive and the ethical ramifications of imposing one society's values on another, as you plunge into several episodes from different iterations of Star Trek, including the classic series of the 1960s, The Next Generation, and Enterprise.
Starship Troopers, Doctor Who, and Just War
17. Starship Troopers, Doctor Who, and Just War
May 25, 2018
From the overt militarism of Starship Troopers to the pacifism of the Doctor, examine how societies view war and the ways we are (or are not) able to justify it. As you compare and contrast two very different ways of confronting violence, you will also look at the middle ground via Just War Theory and ponder the difficulties of preserving life while sometimes having to cause harm.
Firefly, Blake's 7, and Political Rebellion
16. Firefly, Blake's 7, and Political Rebellion
May 25, 2018
Many science fiction stories revolve around scrappy, sympathetic rebels and the overthrow of oppressive government powers. Here, look at how two series - Blake's 7 and Firefly - take similar approaches to the experience of political oppression and individual defiance. Consider the implications of dissent within society and contemplate the perpetual dilemma of balancing freedom and social order.
Star Wars: Good versus Evil
15. Star Wars: Good versus Evil
May 25, 2018
The original Star Wars trilogy is not morally ambiguous, but many other entries in the franchise present complicated gray areas when it comes to good versus evil. Professor Johnson demonstrates how the 21st-century films in the series, especially Rogue One, create a more complicated view of morality - and what Nietzsche can tell us about space politics.
The Orville, Orwell, and the
14. The Orville, Orwell, and the "Black Mirror"
May 25, 2018
The pervasive influence of social media makes life feel more performative than ever, yet it really just demonstrates an old dilemma heightened by new technology. Here, see how the anthology show Black Mirror and the Star Trek-influenced series The Orville offer episodes that examine extreme cases of objectification and mob mentality.
The Thirteenth Floor: Are We Simulated?
13. The Thirteenth Floor: Are We Simulated?
May 25, 2018
What is the likelihood that we are living in a simulated world right now? Some philosophers, using laws of subjective probability, would say it may actually be much higher than you might think. Examine the film The Thirteenth Floor and understand how creating a convincing simulated world could alter our conception of reality itself.
Transcendence and the Dangers of AI
12. Transcendence and the Dangers of AI
May 25, 2018
Science fiction has always been fascinated by the possibilities of artificial intelligence, with many storytellers focusing on the dangers of sentient machines. But human predictions of the future are often inaccurate, so here you will explore arguments both for and against the creation of AI through the film Transcendence, as well as through other iconic stories.
Westworld and A.I. Artificial Intelligence
11. Westworld and A.I. Artificial Intelligence
May 25, 2018
Sentient machines have been a staple of sci-fi for decades. Focus on a few key stories, and take a look at the long history of intelligent machines in film and TV - as well as get a glimpse into our very possible future - examining the ways we conceive of the mind and the implications of artificial intelligence. Machines can calculate, but could they one day be sentient?
Dark City, Dollhouse, and Personal Identity
10. Dark City, Dollhouse, and Personal Identity
May 25, 2018
The nature of personal identity is tied to numerous philosophical concerns: memory, consciousness, even the possibility of an afterlife. With films like Dark City and Moon and TV shows like Dollhouse, Professor Johnson guides you through the theories of great thinkers like Descartes, Locke, Leibniz, and their intellectual descendants.
Star Trek: TNG and Alternate Worlds
9. Star Trek: TNG and Alternate Worlds
May 25, 2018
What can quantum mechanics tell us about the likelihood of alternate worlds? Explore the multiverse theory with Lieutenant Worf in the Star Trek: The Next Generation episode "Parallels" and see how science could support the idea of multiple worlds, while also grappling with the seeming untestable nature of such a theory.
Doctor Who and Time Travel Paradoxes
8. Doctor Who and Time Travel Paradoxes
May 25, 2018
Open with a look at a fan-favorite episode of Doctor Who and explore the nature of paradoxes in time travel. You will also see that science fiction doesn't always have to take itself seriously to tell a great story - or to explore fascinating philosophical questions - when you turn your attention to the Futurama episode "Roswell That Ends Well."
Interstellar: Is Time Travel Possible?
7. Interstellar: Is Time Travel Possible?
May 25, 2018
This lecture will take a look at what metaphysics has to say about the possibility of time travel, focusing primarily on the film Interstellar. Along the way, you will also look at other influential time travel stories and the various theories they represent, like Back to the Future, Quantum Leap, Star Trek, Doctor Who, and Planet of the Apes.
Arrival: Aliens and Radical Translation
6. Arrival: Aliens and Radical Translation
May 25, 2018
See how the 2016 film Arrival can help you examine the three questions that arise when discussing the possibility of alien life in the universe: How likely would a visitation be? What effect on society would it have? And, particularly pertinent to the film, would we be able to communicate with them once they're here?
Contact: Science versus Religion
5. Contact: Science versus Religion
May 25, 2018
Science communicator Carl Sagan believed science and religion could be compatible. But does Contact, the film based on his novel, prove his point or undermine it? Probe the many ways humans use personal experience to justify belief and whether or not such experiences can justify belief in the face of contrary scientific evidence.
The Adjustment Bureau, the Force, and Fate
4. The Adjustment Bureau, the Force, and Fate
May 25, 2018
Explore the concept of individual fate through the film The Adjustment Bureau and the larger concept of universal fate in Star Wars. Along the way, take a look at the ways conspiracy theories and supernatural claims invoke "fate" to explain real-world happenings and how philosophers handle these "explanations."
The Matrix Sequels and Human Free Will
3. The Matrix Sequels and Human Free Will
May 25, 2018
Though panned by critics and science fiction fans alike, upon first release, the two sequels that followed The Matrix - Reloaded and Revolutions, respectively - provide surprisingly fertile ground for philosophical investigation surrounding the existence of free will. Compare multiple theories and see whether these oft-derided films can offer any answers.
The Matrix and the Value of Knowledge
2. The Matrix and the Value of Knowledge
May 25, 2018
Which will you choose, the red pill or the blue? Look at different ideas concerning truth, knowledge, and reality through the film The Matrix, from Plato's definition of knowledge to the theories of Jean Baudrillard. Also, grasp the important distinctions between epistemology and metaphysics.
Inception and the Interpretation of Art
1. Inception and the Interpretation of Art
May 25, 2018
Begin your journey with a look at why science fiction is one of the primary ways contemporary society engages with philosophical issues. Get an overview of the kinds of sci-fi media you will explore throughout the course and explore how you will address the interpretation of art with a look at the film Inception. #Music, Philosophy & Religion
Description
Where to Watch Sci-Phi: Science Fiction as Philosophy
Sci-Phi: Science Fiction as Philosophy is available for streaming on the The Great Courses Signature Collection website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Sci-Phi: Science Fiction as Philosophy on demand at Amazon Prime, Amazon and Kanopy.
  • Premiere Date
    May 25, 2018