Sci-Phi: Science Fiction as Philosophy

Why science fiction is one of the primary ways contemporary society engages with philosophical issues; an overview of the kinds of sci-fi media one will explore; addressing the interpretation of art with a look at the film "Inception".

Looking at different ideas concerning truth, knowledge and reality through the film "The Matrix", from Plato's definition of knowledge to the theories of Jean Baudrillard; grasping the important distinctions between epistemology and metaphysics.

The two sequels that follow "The Matrix" provide fertile ground for a philosophical investigation surrounding the existence of free will; comparing multiple theories; seeing whether these oft-derided films can offer any answers.

Exploring individual fate through the film "The Adjustment Bureau"; studying universal fate in "Star Wars"; how conspiracy theories and supernatural claims invoke "fate" to explain real-world happenings; how philosophers handle these "explanations".

Carl Sagan believes science and religion can be compatible; whether the film "Contact" proves his point; how humans use personal experience to justify belief; whether or not such experiences can justify belief in the face of scientific evidence.

How the film "Arrival" can help one examine the three questions that arise when discussing the possibility of alien life; how likely a visitation would be; the effect it would have on society; whether humans would be able to communicate with aliens.