Author: Greg Viggiano

  • Utopia

    Scholars discuss the portrayal of utopian (and dystopian) futures in science fiction writings: What are some of the common themes?  Have these portrayals changed with time?  What are the odds we are heading towards these futures (or trying to move away from them)?

  • The evolution of Sci-Fi

    An overview of the history of science fiction, as well as the evolution of the various subgenres that constitute the literary field.  Speakers will also discuss the how other cultures and the international community have been involved in the broadening of science fiction.  Looking to expand the subgenres you read or write about?  Just like…

  • Science Fiction Criticism: Suvin and Beyond

    Good SF is more than just entertainment, and the ever-increasing amount of critical attention it is receiving suggests that people have stopped viewing it as “mere” genre fiction. Addressing the legacy of Darko Suvin and his articulation of cognitive estrangement, panelists will discuss the state of modern science fiction criticism and the areas of inquiry…

  • Gender Portrayals in Sci-Fi

    In an age where non-traditional gender expression has challenged the heteronormative status quo, the question of gender in science fiction opens up a world of possibilities. But despite our immense progress in human understanding on this issue, much science fiction literature still represents gender in a binary framework, and seems anchored to traditionalist gender roles…

  • Technology of the Soul

    As technology pushes the boundaries of the human body and attempts to reimagine cognition through artificial intelligence, our notions of what defines humanity are forced to evolve. In the Cartestian sense, the metaphysical question of the “human soul” as separate from the body raises ontological questions about where to locate the humanity in human beings.…

  • Roddenberry to Speak at Escape Velocity

    Roddenberry to Speak at Escape Velocity

    Rod Roddenberry, the son of Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry, will speak about his father’s legacy as the series celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, as well as his work as president of the Roddenberry Foundation. Press release: Roddenberry to Speak at Escape Velocity

  • CubeSat Competition

    CubeSat Competition

    The Museum of Science Fiction believes that science fiction is rich with ideas that can serve as a springboard for curiosity and project-based learning activities. Based on the belief that science fiction holds educational value for all ages, the Museum and its partner organizations will endeavor to develop and tailor our educational competitions to appeal…

  • At the White House for Astronomy Night

    At the White House for Astronomy Night

    The Museum of Science Fiction and Cornell University were invited to the White House this evening for Astronomy Night to announce a competition for high school students to get their CubeSat project launched into space. Based on the belief that science fiction, curiosity, and project-based learning holds educational value for all ages, the Museum of…

  • Children’s National Receives $1 for Every Ticket Sold

    Children’s National Receives $1 for Every Ticket Sold

    Escape Velocity is pleased to designate Children’s National as the official event beneficiary. Children’s National Health System, based in Washington, DC, has been serving the nation’s children since 1870. Children’s National is Magnet® designated, and was ranked among the top 10 pediatric hospitals by U.S. News & World Report 2015-16. Home to the Children’s Research…

  • Museum membership for holiday gifts !!!

    Museum membership for holiday gifts !!!

    We’ve accomplished so much will so little . . . A Museum membership card is a great holiday gift idea for you or your favorite sci fi fan – and it can help spread the word. Please visit our membership page: http://www.museumofsciencefiction.org/join Membership purchases received before December 17 should arrive by Christmas eve. As a…