Existential Science Fiction

A scholar of digital media and humanities, Lizardi distinguishes existential science fiction from existentialism in science fiction. Though he engages with existentialist philosophers, the emphasis is on narratives highlighting broad questions of human existence and identity rather than conflict with antagonists.... [T]he author is convincing in arguing that media have increasingly explored existential questions. Recommended... Lower- and upper-division undergraduates; graduate students. * Choice Reviews * While contemporary science fiction media is often criticized for privileging digital effects over story, Ryan Lizardi demonstrates that sublime images are not the enemy of complex ideas. The thoughtful analyses in Existential Science Fiction reveal a new Golden Age of films, shows, and games that explore both outer and inner space. -- Bradley Schauer, University of Arizona A scholar of digital media and humanities, Lizardi distinguishes existential science fiction from existentialism in science fiction. Though he engages with existentialist philosophers, the emphasis is on narratives highlighting broad questions of human existence and identity rather than conflict with antagonists.... [T]he author is convincing in arguing that media have increasingly explored existential questions. Recommended... Lower- and upper-division undergraduates; graduate students. * Choice Reviews * While contemporary science fiction media is often criticized for privileging digital effects over story, Ryan Lizardi demonstrates that sublime images are not the enemy of complex ideas. The thoughtful analyses in Existential Science Fiction reveal a new Golden Age of films, shows, and games that explore both outer and inner space. -- Bradley Schauer, University of Arizona