Writing Homework Help
University of Manitoba Race Relations and Science Fiction Essay
PROMPT A:
How are cultural and linguistic relativism useful in analyzing science fiction? Be sure to clearly and succinctly define what they are. Then outline them more broadly in relation to analyses of culture as well as of science fiction. Discuss the following: What would be missing from analyses of science fiction without cultural and linguistic relativism? How do they complement one another? Cite Boas (1982[1940]), Hoijer (1954), and Sapir (1927) in your discussion. Also, draw from at least two science fiction narratives (written stories or films) that we have read or watched in class in your discussion to illustrate the usefulness of cultural and linguistic relativism.
PROMPT B:
How may race and race relations be examined using science fiction? Outline the importance of social difference, such as the politics of race, to relations of power among humans as well as to science fiction. Discuss the following: How does science fiction explore race and race relations through both the presence and absence of race? What would be missing from our analyses if we did not interpret science fiction through the history of race relations? Cite Roberts (2000), Delany (1999), and Nama (2008) in your discussion. Draw from at least two science fiction narratives (written stories or films) that we have read or watched in class in your discussion, in order to illustrate your points.
