Science fiction is held in low regard as a branch of literature, and perhaps it deserves this critical contempt. But if we view it as a kind of sociology of the future, rather than as literature, science fiction has immense value as a mind-stretching force for the creation of the habit of anticipation. Our children should be studying Arthur C. Clarke, William Tenn, Robert Heinlein, Ray Bradbury and Robert Sheckley, not because these writers can tell them about rocket ships and time machines but, more important, because they can lead young minds through an imaginative exploration of the jungle of political, social, psychological, and ethical issues that will confront these children as adults. | |
— Alvin Toffler | |
From his book: “Future Shock“ | |
[I would add they should be read because they are (were) great writers! — kmab] | |
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On This Day In: | |
2012 | 1010 |
There In The Sunshine | |
2011 | Not Enough Time |
Archive for August 19th, 2013
Sociology Of The Future
Posted in Philosophy, Quotes, Reading, tagged Alvin Toffler, Arthur C. Clarke, Future Shock, On Science Fiction, Philosophy, Quotes, Ray Bradbury, Reading, Robert Heinlein, Robert Sheckley, Sociology Of The Future, William Tenn on August 19, 2013| Leave a Comment »