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The article makes the case for the world descriptions and concepts introduced in SF being an inspiration to real world entrepreneurs, such as Stephenson inspiri
by crdb 10y ago
The article makes the case for the world descriptions and concepts introduced in SF being an inspiration to real world entrepreneurs, such as Stephenson inspiring the PayPal co-founders and a series of portal companies.
But science fiction has a greater impact in being one of the few forms in 20th century arts that dared to present an optimistic view of the future and of values that led to a better world, be it Picard's exemplary leadership in Star Trek TNG, or Heinlein's "normal person finding their courage and values has an impact" novels.
Apocalypse Now or Brazil may be "great" movies but they are incredibly depressing. "Resign yourself to the brokenness of the world, people. The state/realpolitik will crush you." "No", says Asimov, "your actions matter and have an impact. Courage and reason are great qualities, go build the world you want." How many other mainstream movies, books or artworks have this message, outside of science fiction?
- Iv 10y agoI was surprised to agree a lot on what Disney's Tomorrowland stated on that exact matter.
- bbctol 10y agoWell... I'd say by definition, only science fiction can present any view of the future, optimistic or not. There are tons of great movies and books about the present and past that are uplifting and optimistic, and certainly plenty of incredibly depressing science fiction novels. I do agree that it's the inspirational character of science fiction that's more important than the particular facts, though.