Sci-Phi: Science Fiction as Philosophy

By: The Great Courses

Narrated by: Professor David K. Johnson PhD University of Oklahoma

Length: 13 hrs and 31 mins

Publisher's summary

The science fiction genre has become increasingly influential in mainstream popular culture, evolving into one of the most engaging storytelling tools we use to think about technology and consider the shape of the future. Along the way, it has also become one of the major lenses we use to explore important philosophical questions.

The origins of science fiction are most often thought to trace to Mary Shelley's novel Frankenstein, a story born from a night of spooky tale-telling by the fireside that explores scientific, moral, and ethical questions that were of great concern in the 19th century - and that continue to resonate today. And, although novels and short stories built the foundations of science fiction, film and television have emerged as equally powerful, experimental, and enjoyable ways to experience the genre. Even as far back as the silent era, films like Fritz Lang's Metropolis have used science fiction to tell stories that explore many facets of human experience.

In Sci-Phi: Science Fiction as Philosophy, Professor of Philosophy David Kyle Johnson, of King's College, takes you on a 24-lecture exploration of the final frontiers of philosophy across several decades of science fiction in film and television. From big-budget blockbusters to television series featuring aliens in rubber masks, Professor Johnson finds food for philosophical thought in a wide range of stories. By looking at serious questions through astonishing tales and astounding technologies, you will see how science fiction allows us to consider immense, vital - and sometimes controversial - ideas with a rare combination of engagement and critical distance. 

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your Library section along with the audio.

©2018 The Great Courses (P)2018 The Teaching Company, LLC

Philosophy and Science Fiction

This course is a must for lovers of science fiction. It deepens one’s understanding about the appeal of the genre and broadens her insight into the books and film she encounters in it.

My only complaint? The course was about film and didn’t really include sci-fi novels, in my opinion the best examples of the
science fiction corpus,

Probably the most interesting philosophy course

I love philosophy and science fiction. And these lectures are nearly perfect if you feel the same.

I only wish it was much longer. There is a lot more subject matter that could have been covered.

brilliant, just too short

very, interesting,well written. a very broad stroke but each chapter is clear and helpful. really enjoyed this.

loved it!

I thought this lecture series was really interesting. It was fun to learn about philosophy through the lens of science fiction. Professor David Johnson is a self admitted nerd and presents the subjects with enthusiasm and is really easy to listen to. The end of the lecture made me long for more. I want a sequel! I'm probably going to listen to it again and again.

Dense, superficial, eyeopening

As dense in philosophy as it is a synoptic. Shows how huge the topic is

Professor David K. Johnson is delightful!

Loved it! Would love to hear lectures on topics Dr. Johnson mentioned at the ending.

Great concept and well done. Worth a listen

Really enjoyed this way of looking at sci fi from a philosophical standpoint. Certainly made me think at a number of points. If you like sci fi and also enjoy philosophy- this is certainly a match for you. Enjoy

Wonderful brain-massage

This is a wonderful course with an ingenious theme, which allows David K. Johnson to traverse the whole universe in a multi-disciplinary way. The time per lecture is limited, and thus each topic, and even so each sci-fi work, each philosopher/philosophy mentioned cannot be dived deeply into. Personally, I think this is a strength in this course. It die you enough to think about, watch the movies, and then we're all free to explore and go elsewhere to dive deeper (Johnson has a great course The Big Questions of Philosophy).

You're supposed to watch one movie before moving on and listen to a lecture, I essentially consumed the course this way.

Highly recommended. Exciting, thought-provoking, irritating at times (not the course but simply the way humanity is wired).
You will absolutely not regret spending the $9 or so for this course, it is SOOO worth it.

Well worth your time

Full of thoughtful questions and reflections captured with in depth analysis of films. His genuine interest makes contemplating with him enjoyable. I will recommend this to my friends.

Nerd, Defined.

Our professor professes to be a Science Fiction nerd; and he is. What you must know before you purchase: What is a Science Fiction Nerd? Science Fiction Nerds don't read any Science Fiction. I did not know this. In Nerd World, SF exists only on film ( this includes TV, obviously ). Nerd SF does not include any science fiction novels, short stories, novellas, etc, UNLESS the book has been adapted for film - and then, only the film adaptation is considered. Yes. The SF nerd is a very limited creature. They wanna watch. This will include zero SF novels. But boy oh boy, if your SF is "Star Wars" (meh), "Star Trek" (goofy), "Star Trek; Next Gen" (YAWN - they carpeted the Enterprise for this spin-off, perfect for lulling you to sleep). "Dr. Who" ( Not even shot with 35mm film. They used video tape. That's why "Dr. Who" looks just like General Hospital.