Where science meets art: using science-fiction as a medium for science communication

Abstract

As the world becomes more urbanized than ever before, society has continued to grow dissociated from nature and our impact on it. Too often, nature is taken for granted and treated as a luxury: we retreat into nature to escape from our stressful daily routines. Popular media, such as science-fiction, often shows nature as a threat that can destroy us. While this makes for good entertainment, science-fiction is also unique, in that it can provide a structure for societal evolution. What if the dialogue changed? What if prevalent themes portrayed how society can not only coexist with, but integrate and benefit from nature? Science-fiction has the ability to encourage the public to be more mindful of their relationship with nature. Writing science-fiction novels has also given me an opportunity to develop educational resources in written and video format, as well as raise funds for environmental organizations. In doing so, I have witnessed firsthand how my own efforts have inspired readers and viewers to take on scientific pursuits and make environmentally-conscious changes in their own lives. This shows the impact science-fiction can have when presented responsibly, and with a purpose. If we shift the dialogue, perhaps we can inspire our urbanized society to establish a beneficial, yet mutual relationship with nature.