Science fiction is often just that – fiction. But in a world in which A.I. has made commercial space travel a reality and a humanoid robot has been granted citizenship, science fiction becomes something else entirely. This first year seminar considers the history of artificial intelligence through its representation in media and popular culture. We will explore the emergence of A.I. alongside the genre of science fiction, paying careful attention to how popular culture influences science and science influences popular culture. On a broader level, we will interrogate the relationship between science and storytelling; science fiction is an incredibly old and influential genre. In order to do this, we will study: the history of ideas about A.I. in the western world and its technical development. We will consider the burning questions that sci-fi and A.I. share – what does it mean to be human? Can life be replaced, enhanced, or custom designed? Is faster and smarter always better? Can we alter time and space? Weekly seminars include screenings of film, TV, art, and literature and friendly debate about how these art forms grapple with the everyday presence of technology in our lives.

Course Requirements:

Weekly readings and screenings, paper, discussion questions, active seminar-style participation

Intended Audience:

First year undergraduate students

Class Format:

Seminar - meets once weekly