Defining science fiction

In the first meeting of our Social/Science/Fiction course, we discussed a topic which I have honestly never thought about before. After meeting each other and comparing our geekiness to that of every one else in the class, we launched into a discussion on what defines science fiction.

In groups, we brainstormed. Our group came up with the idea that science fiction must always be grounded, somewhat, in reality. That isn't to say that science fiction is realistic; it just means that the ideas and events that exist in pieces of science fiction can, theoretically be explained by some aspect of science (this explanation usually does not adhere to the rules of science as we know them today, but it relates to a field of science that does currently exist). It is simply a matter of comparing which films and literature use science as an explanation and which use magic.

I found this discussion to be pretty interesting (geek that I am) and it became more so when the point was raised that this definition would imply that Star Wars (the end-all and be-all of science fiction for a lot of people) cannot be strictly considered science fiction because of the existence of "The Force," which is, of course, not related to science (unless you wait for the explanation in the new films). While this makes sense to me, I still find it hard to disqualify Star Wars as science fiction. I think it should be considered a high-ranking, honorary member of the genre.

Anyway, the discussion in class on Thursday brought out my inner nerd and I look forward to more in-depth looks at the intellectual side of various pieces of science fiction.