London’s Institute of Ideas is presenting the Douglas Adams Memorial Debate on 3 May at 7PM. This year’s topic is “From Star Wars to the Battle of Ideas: Is science fiction good for public debate?”
The description of the event is: “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?
“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, or even educational?
“Should ‘proper’ sci fi deal with hard science rather than ‘issues’? Or should we stop worrying and just enjoy it?”
Speakers will include:
* Professor Mark Brake of the Centre for Astronomy & Science Education, University of Glamorgan
* Stephen Foulger, Curator of “Science of Aliens” at the Science Museum
* Dr. Geeta Nargund, consultant in Reproductive Medicine at St. George’s Hospital, London, who was an advisor on the film Children of Men
* David Perks, head of physics at the Graveney School and author of What Is Science Education For?
* Rev. Neil Hook of the Centre for Astronomy and Science Education, University of Glamorgan
* Dr. Lizzie Burns of Hollywood Maths and Science Consulting
* Dolan Cummings of the Institute of Ideas
The event will be held at the Apollo Cinema, West End, 19 Regent Street, London SW1Y 4LR. Admission is £7, with tickets available at this site.