Lifestyle
A college course that’s a history of the future
The course “Science Fiction as Intellectual History” explores how sci-fi reflects cultural thoughts and anxieties, using stories to analyze technology, future predictions, and evolving societal ideas.
Adam Jortner, Auburn University
Uncommon Courses is an occasional series from The Conversation U.S. highlighting unconventional approaches to teaching.
Title of course:
Science Fiction as Intellectual History
What prompted the idea for the course?
For most of its history, science fiction was a disreputable, throwaway genre. But sources of culture and thought aren’t just found in classic literature or in the writings of the great thinkers. They’re also in popular entertainment: movies, comics, pulp magazines, TV.
Big thoughts often come in chunks with labels like “The Future” or “Technology” or “Freedom.” And most ideas about these things are shaped by science fiction.
So in this class, my students explore how the theories of Charles Darwin, for example, are reflected in science fiction like “Jurassic Park,” “The Island of Dr. Moreau,” “X-Men” and “The Wrath of Khan.”
I’m lucky to be the third generation of professors teaching this course at Auburn. It’s an old staple here that I inherited.
What does the course explore?
I usually pick three big plot ideas from sci-fi: alien encounters, time travel and superhuman abilities. Then we trace the development of those ideas, primarily through American fiction.
Students might read H.G. Wells’ “The Time Machine,” which was written in the 1890s and tells the story of the Eloi and Morlocks, post-human races from 800,000 years in the future; C.L. Moore’s secret visitors from the future in the 1953 novella “Vintage Season”; and Steven Spielberg’s 1985 escape to an idealized 1950s in “Back to the Future.”
These works all include mind-bending theories about what time travel might look like. But students also see how each of them tells a different story about the anxieties and obsessions of the times in which they were created.
For example, Wells’ novel is a vision of how thousands of years of Victorian class divisions lead to the evolution of a group of cannibalistic underground humans. In “Back to the Future,” Marty McFly leaves the dingy, broken-down 1980s for a clean and shiny version of the 1950s, one that looks much more promising than 1985. The film taps into the 1980s political and cultural nostalgia for so-called “simpler” times. (Of course, in their version of 1955, Biff and Marty never deal with segregation or Cold War nuclear panic.)
Science fiction offers a kind of film negative of history – a back door into what made people worried or scared rather than what was heroic. Sci-fi captures that fear and anxiety.
Rod Serling’s 1960 “Twilight Zone” episode “The Monsters Are Due on Maple Street” is the story of how neighbors turn on each other when they suspect an alien invasion is taking place. It parallels the American crisis over desegregation and communist subversion.
As Serling concluded, “For the record, prejudices can kill and suspicion can destroy, and a thoughtless, frightened search for a scapegoat has a fallout of its own – for the children, and the children unborn. And the pity of it is that such things cannot be confined to the Twilight Zone.”
Why is this course relevant now?
New technology, along with endless predictions and prophecies about the future, bombard students.
It’s important to take a moment to step back. How is the way we talk about and use technology influenced by the way we’re trained to think about technology and the future? And how much do past visions of the future dictate the choices of the present?
What’s a critical lesson from the course?
Students often think technology has rules and it will follow those rules. But technology doesn’t work like that.
That’s both terrifying and uplifting, because it means that we can still create and imagine our future as we see fit.
What materials does the course feature?
I anchor the course with a series of novels; the list changes, but it always includes “The Time Machine” and Ursula K. Le Guin’s 1971 novel “The Lathe of Heaven.”
Beyond that, I try to pepper in a mix of pulp stories, TV shows, radio dramas, comic books and films. I assign the 1970s avant-garde sci-fi stories of Brian Aldiss and Joanna Russ, and underground literature from the 1980s, such as the graphic novel “Ed the Happy Clown.”
I shape the course like a traditional “great books” course – those that feature the works of intellectual and literary giants – by assigning a different work every week. I just have a different idea about what makes a great book.
We also spend a delightful week examining the economic and cultural history of “so-bad-its-good” B movies and late-night features, where I have them watch an episode of the Canadian sci-fi show “The Starlost,” considered one of the worst shows in television history. Sometimes you have to learn what not to do.
What will the course prepare students to do?
They learn to read and think. They learn that all stories have ideas and philosophies, whether simple or complex, wise or foolish.
I hope they learn to watch for nonsense in public debates about technology and the future – like how some people assume computer modeling for human language is the same thing as language – and keep an eye out for ideologies masquerading as action films.
I hope they learn to love an author they’ve never read before – and learn to appreciate how much reading and stories make life worth living.
Adam Jortner, Goodwin Philpott Eminent Professor of Religion, Auburn University
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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expo
Exciting Collaboration: Ketone Labs & Blue Pacific Flavors Unite to Transform Functional Beverages at Expo West 2025!
PRNewswire
March 4-7, 2025, marks a momentous occasion in the world of innovation at Expo West, and we’re thrilled to share the exciting news about the strategic partnership between two pioneers: Ketone Labs and Blue Pacific Flavors. This collaboration aims to revolutionize the functional beverage landscape with the introduction of goBHB®-powered drinks, combining science-backed formulation with mouthwatering flavors.
What’s Buzzing at Expo West?
Set in the vibrant city of Anaheim, California, Expo West 2025 is the place to be for industry professionals and health enthusiasts alike. Visitors can look forward to an exclusive sneak peek at groundbreaking non-stimulant energy beverages that harness the power of goBHB®. These innovative drinks stand out by delivering clean, sustained energy without the jitters associated with caffeine or taurine.
The Power of goBHB®: Fueling a Healthier Future
At the core of this partnership is goBHB®, a game-changing innovation that promises to uplift our daily wellness routines. Here’s a breakdown of what makes these beverages stand out:
- Brain Health: The cognitive benefits of goBHB® are remarkable! It enhances mental clarity and focus, making it perfect for those long workdays or study sessions.
- Gut Health: With specially designed formulations that support the microbiome, these beverages are as much about feeling good on the inside as they are about revitalizing your energy levels.
- Metabolic Energy: goBHB® serves as a rapid source of fuel, enabling endurance and performance, whether you’re hitting the gym or navigating a busy day.
Meet Our Innovators
Industry veterans Donald F. Wilkes, CEO of Blue Pacific Flavors, and Rob C. Rogers, Founder of Ketone Labs, are enthusiastic about this partnership and the future it holds. With Donald’s extensive experience in flavor science and beverage formulation and Rob’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of metabolic health, this collaboration is set to redefine expectations.
“In my 40+ years in the industry, I have never seen a technology as transformative as goBHB®,” Wilkes stated. “It’s a game-changer in metabolic health, offering a science-backed, clean-energy solution that fits today’s functional beverage landscape.”
Echoing this sentiment, Rob C. Rogers shared, “goBHB® is revolutionizing the industry, and our partnership with Blue Pacific Flavors is pivotal in unlocking its full potential.”
Tantalizing Taste Meets Cutting-Edge Science
One of the most exciting aspects of this partnership is the introduction of several unique and innovative flavored products, all developed by Blue Pacific Flavors. The day is coming when functional health drinks aren’t just good for you—they’ll taste fantastic too!
Will you be attending Expo West 2025? Be sure to visit Booth #4373 for a chance to sample these extraordinary beverages and see firsthand how goBHB® can integrate into your lifestyle. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the experts behind these innovations and learn more about the intersection of delicious flavor and health-conscious formulation.
Join Us on This Journey!
As we embark on this exciting journey in functional nutrition, we invite you to stay connected and follow along. Together, Ketone Labs and Blue Pacific Flavors are committed to delivering the next generation of delicious, effective, and innovative products tailored to modern consumer needs.
Let’s Change the Way We Think About Nutrition
Join us at Expo West 2025, and be part of the exciting new wave of functional beverages that promote brain health, gut health, and metabolic energy without compromising on flavor. The future of wellness awaits—let’s explore it together! 🥤✨
For more updates, follow us on our social media channels and explore the fascinating world of goBHB® and its incredible potential! See you in Anaheim!
STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.
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health and wellness
Urban Remedy Disrupts the $5.1B Shakes Market with First-of-Its-Kind Organic Protein Collagen Shake
Made with 30g protein, 10g grass fed collagen and 0g added sugar.
POINT RICHMOND, Calif. /PRNewswire/ — Urban Remedy, a leader in certified organic freshly prepared ready-to-eat meals, snacks, and cold-pressed juices, announces its launch of organic high protein collagen meal replacement shakes. Fueled by surging consumer demand for clean protein and collagen, Urban Remedy‘s decision to launch this trendsetting innovation is made possible with a first to market source of organic bovine collagen peptides from sustainably raised grass-fed cowhides.
Now available in Whole Foods Market, the Organic Protein Collagen Shakes come in two delicious flavors that deliver unmatched nutritional benefits, Chocolate with 30g of protein, and Vanilla with 28g of protein. They both include 10g of organic collagen to support hair, skin, nail and joint health. The type 1 and type 3 collagen peptides are hydrolyzed for optimal absorption and provide 18 amino acids. There is 0g added sugar per bottle. Instead, the drinks are naturally sweetened with date, plant-based stevia extract and monk fruit extract offering an uncompromisingly delicious taste.
“The demand for high protein and clean eating continues to grow, fueled by busy lifestyles and an increasing understanding that food is medicine.” said Steven Naccarato, CEO, Urban Remedy. “As a fast-growing leader in functional food and beverage, we’re committed to transforming the way people fuel their bodies.”
“Consumers want foods that taste amazing with less sugar and real, nutrient dense ingredients,” said Neka Pasquale, Founder and Chief Product Officer of Urban Remedy. “Our products are 100% clean, and we specially choose certified organic ingredients for their healing properties, such as organic grass-fed collagen. As a brand we never include inflammatory ingredients like dairy, gluten, refined sugar or any artificial ingredients.”
The Organic Protein Collagen Shakes are now available in Urban Remedy’s grab & go kiosks in Whole Foods Market, online on Whole Foods Market on Amazon and retail for $9.99 for a 16oz bottle.
For more information about Urban Remedy, visit www.urbanremedy.com. Find a store near you at ww.urbanremedy.com/locations/
About Urban Remedy
Urban Remedy creates delicious, clean and convenient organic foods that embody the belief that food is healing. All of Urban Remedy‘s freshly prepared meals, refrigerated snacks and cold-pressed juices are certified organic, non-GMO, gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar free to support an anti-inflammatory diet and are thoughtfully crafted with every ingredient chosen for its healing properties. Urban Remedy believes that business can be a force for good and is a certified B corporation meeting rigorous standards of environmental and social performance, accountability and transparency. Urban Remedy is sold in over 370 Whole Foods Market locations and in other retailers including Ralphs, Fred Meyer, QFC, Fry’s, King Soopers, Andronico’s, Raley’s and more. www.urbanremedy.com.
Source: SPINS MULO + Natural Channel, Protein & Meal Replacement Liquid Subcategory, L52W ending 1/26/25
SOURCE Urban Remedy
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The Bridge
Celebrating the Legacy of Dr. Patricia Era Bath: A Trailblazer in Ophthalmology and Beyond
In a world where innovation often shapes the future, few have left as profound a mark as Dr. Patricia Era Bath. Born on November 4, 1942, Dr. Bath transcended boundaries, redefining what it means to be a pioneer in medicine and a champion for the underserved. Her journey is not just a testament to her incredible intellect and skill as an ophthalmologist, but also to her unwavering commitment to humanitarianism and social justice.
A Visionary in Ophthalmology
Dr. Bath was not only a skilled surgeon; she was a revolutionary. As one of the early pioneers of laser cataract surgery, her work has changed the lives of countless individuals worldwide. The development of this innovative technique not only improved patient outcomes but also symbolized a turning point in ophthalmic surgery. With her groundbreaking achievements, Dr. Bath illustrated that the intersection of science and compassion could embody the essence of healthcare.
Her trailblazing career included being the first woman inducted as a member of the prestigious Jules Stein Eye Institute and the first woman to lead a post-graduate training program in ophthalmology. Moreover, her remarkable journey culminated in her becoming the first African-American woman on the staff at the UCLA Medical Center, where she pushed boundaries in a field historically dominated by men.
A Legacy of Firsts
Dr. Bath’s legacy is marked by her groundbreaking “firsts.” She was the first African-American person to complete residency in ophthalmology at New York University and the first African-American woman to serve as a surgeon at UCLA Medical Center. Even more impressive is her achievement of becoming the first African-American woman doctor to receive a patent for a medical invention, holding five patents in total.
Among her most notable contributions is the founding of the American Institute for the Prevention of Blindness in Washington, D.C., where she tirelessly worked to raise awareness and address disparities in access to eye care. Dr. Bath’s pioneering spirit extended beyond her profession; she propelled an entire generation toward a future where access to quality medical treatment is a right, not a privilege.
A Voice for the Voiceless
Dr. Bath’s humanitarian work extended to advocacy as she sought to illuminate the challenges faced by marginalized communities in achieving equitable healthcare. In 2009, she was honored to stand beside President Barack Obama, recognizing her contributions in ophthalmology and serving on his commission for digital accessibility to blind children. Her efforts highlighted the pressing need for inclusivity in healthcare, technology, and education—echoing her steadfast belief that everyone deserves access to the tools that enhance sight and learning.
In April 2019, just weeks before her passing, Dr. Bath shared her insights during a Senate hearing titled “Trailblazers and Lost Einsteins: Women Inventors and the Future of American Innovation.” Her testimony shed light on the gender disparities in STEM fields and the crucial need for recognition and support of female inventors. Even in her final days, she was a beacon of hope and progress.
Remembering Dr. Patricia Bath
Dr. Patricia Era Bath passed away on May 30, 2019, due to cancer-related complications, leaving behind an inspiring legacy of resilience, empathy, and innovation. At age 76, she had changed the very fabric of medicine while reminding us of the vital importance of diversity in healthcare.
As we celebrate Dr. Bath’s life, let us remember her not only for her remarkable achievements but also for the path she has paved for future generations. Her legacy lives on, reminding us that the fight for equity in healthcare is far from over and that the spirit of innovation fuels our collective journey toward progress.
In honor of Dr. Bath, let us continue her mission to advance healthcare for all, celebrate diversity in all its forms, and strive to make the world a more equitable place—for sight, for education, and for justice. Rest in peace, Dr. Patricia Era Bath. Your vision changed the world, and you will forever be remembered as a true trailblazer.
Patricia Bath (Wikipedia) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patricia_Bath
STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.
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