The Douglas Adams Memorial Debate

From Star Wars to the Battle of Ideas Is science fiction good for public debate?

Science fiction often tells us more about social attitudes and anxieties than science itself, and can be a spur for debate about everything from genetics to consciousness, from war to climate change. Sci-fi can move people to engage in science, inspiring young people to become scientists, and encouraging the general public to debate the consequences of science for society. It can also frighten us, making us wary of new technology and its unintended consequences. Is this all to the good, or does sci-fi skew our understanding of science?

FESTIVAL SPECIAL EVENT Comedian and writer Mark Stevenson presents a stand-up routine to get us in the mood for some gloves-off discussions.

Writers and filmmakers often take their inspiration from science and ask 'what if…?', but when it comes down to it, they have few qualms about ditching scientific accuracy in favour of gripping narrative. Does it matter how much actual science gets into sci-fi, as long as it gets people talking? Do writers and directors have a responsibility to make their science accurate? Should 'proper' sci-fi deal with hard science rather than 'issues'? Or should we stop worrying and just enjoy it?

• Professor Mark Brake, Centre for Astronomy and Science Education, University of Glamorgan
• Rev. Neil Hook, Centre for Astronomy and Science Education, University of Glamorgan
• Dr. Geeta Nargund, consultant in Reproductive Medicine, St. George's Hospital, London
• David Perks, head of physics, Graveney School; author, What Is Science Education For?
• Dr Lizzie Burns, Hollywood Maths and Science Consulting
• Stephen Foulger, curator of The Science Museum's 'Science of Aliens'

Curated and chaired by Institute of Ideas