Oct 04 | Week 4
Why is Sc-Fi so obsessed with colonialism and imperial adventure ? After reading Saunders (2015) article 'Imperial Imaginaries: Employing Science Fiction to Talk about Geopolitics', I have began to analyze some of the well known Science Fiction movie franchise (Star Wars, Star Trek etc) from a different lens. The article forces the reader to engage with the subject of geopolitics, where one nation's power (be it economical and geographical) can threaten the perceived inferior state. Science Fiction movies and shows usually deal with exploration of territory, exploitation of resources and control. These topics can be powerful discussion starters in a classroom to teach about propaganda, stereotypes and the fear of the unknown. Students can begin to make their own connections between certain SF movie characters and politicians, as well as critically deconstruct the deeper meanings of the events that are unfolding in the movie and comparing them to past and current events. SF presents both past events and future possibilities, it opens room for imagination of ways to solve today's political conflicts. The emotional effect that our students have as a result of SF movies can be used as a powerful tool in our classroom to further develop their critical thinking skills by being forced to examine international relations and imperialism. Students will be able to see territorial power in new light, deeper connections can be made with aboriginal land struggles and foreign Canadian policies. This can further make room for questioning some of the popular shows and movies that are available for us to view and whether the media plays a role in shaping our perceptions and prejudices. Saunders, Robert A. (2015). "Imperial Imaginaries: Exploring Science Fiction to Talk about Geopolitics." Popular Culture and World Politics. Retrieved from: http://www.e-ir.info/2015/06/11/imperial-imaginaries-employing-science-fiction-to-talk-about-geopolitics/ |
|