Science fiction, from its mainstream inception, has always harbored a subversive streak. This isn’t a new phenomenon; it’s woven into the very fabric of the genre, particularly in the most widely recognized and commercially successful series. Think back to the dawn of television sci-fi with shows like The Twilight Zone and Star Trek. These weren’t just tales of fantastical futures; they were mirrors reflecting, and often distorting, the present, prompting viewers to question societal norms and expectations. This legacy of thoughtful rebellion continues through iconic series such as TNG, Babylon 5, The Tomorrow People, Stargate, Farscape, Fringe, and The X-Files, and into more contemporary shows like Dark Matter, 12 Monkeys, The Orville, and For All Mankind. As we eagerly anticipate the Doctor Who Next Episode, it’s worth remembering this tradition of subversion, a key ingredient that makes sci-fi so compelling.
Science fiction often functions as a morality play, using exaggerated scenarios to satirize aspects of our own world. Consider the stark example from the 1970s series Survivors, where a post-pandemic community contemplates a horrifying act of expediency. Or recall a more recent, equally unsettling, Doctor Who episode where the Doctor encounters a world perpetually trapped on a highway. These narratives aren’t merely about escapism; they delve into the complexities of human nature, forcing us to confront uncomfortable truths about ourselves and society. This “SF soup,” as it were, is what many of us have come to savor.
Series like Andromeda, The 100, Firefly, and The Expanse further exemplify this trend. They boldly challenge established perspectives, question long-held beliefs, satirize societal structures, and champion diversity. What’s remarkable about science fiction is its capacity to explore these potentially contentious themes within a “safe space” – a fictional universe that allows for critical examination without immediate real-world repercussions. This very quality is a significant part of the genre’s enduring allure, drawing in fans since childhood, perhaps starting with classic tales like The Time Machine and its depiction of the Eloi and Morlocks.
For many science fiction enthusiasts, the genre’s progressive ideals are deeply intertwined with the culture of its fandom. The communities built around sci-fi often embrace values of acceptance and inclusion, mirroring the very themes explored in the shows and books we love. Think of the aspirational nature of concepts like IDIC (Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations) from Star Trek, or the Federation’s principles, or the compassionate ethos of The Doctor. These ideals, also reflected in characters like Dr. Weir from Stargate and James Holden from The Expanse, resonate deeply with fans who see science fiction as more than just entertainment. To dismiss these elements as recent “wokeness” is to ignore the long-standing progressive undercurrent that has always been part of the genre.
It’s understandable if not every viewer is drawn to science fiction for the same reasons. Personal preferences vary. However, to suggest that the subversive elements are a sudden, recent addition to the genre is simply inaccurate. From The Doctor sabotaging the Company on Pluto in classic Doctor Who, to the stark racial tension explored in Star Trek‘s “Let That Be Your Last Battlefield” episode with Lokai and Bele, science fiction has consistently engaged with social issues. Perhaps the specific issues being addressed evolve over time, but the act of challenging the status quo, of prompting reflection and discussion, has been a constant.
Denying this inherent subversiveness, particularly when contemporary narratives challenge aspects of the status quo that may feel personally uncomfortable, seems to reveal more about the viewer’s perspective than the nature of science fiction itself. Ultimately, we are here to celebrate our shared appreciation for this incredible genre. Science fiction, at its heart, is a space for exploration, not just of galaxies far away, but of the very fabric of our society and ourselves. And as we look forward to the Doctor Who next episode, we can anticipate another chapter in this ongoing, thought-provoking conversation.
