Aliens, laser guns, and runaway experiments! From Frankenstein to Dune, science fiction has been a cornerstone of storytelling for more than four centuries. Works of science fiction have inspired countless children and adults alike to do great things and avoid horrible catastrophes, and thus gives us a lot of insight into the human psyche. But what exactly IS science fiction? Why do we love it so much? And how possible is it REALLY? In this class we will examine the science fiction genre from many angles by watching movies, reading short stories, and discussing the history of the genre. We will focus on how science fiction works and how it can be used as a vehicle for social commentary, cautionary tales, metaphors for our own world, and inspirational storytelling.