Physics 21: Science and Science Fiction in Film

Dr. Leroy W. Dubeck
ldubeck@temple.edu

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This introductory-level physics course is for non-science majors. It has no science prerequisite. It uses about 12 science fiction films to illustrate physical principles (or their violation). The students will screen the films, which are commercially available, using their home VCRs. We will also utilize selected Star Trek: The Next Generation episodes. The textbook for the course, Fantastic Voyages: Learning Science Through Science Fiction Films, by Leroy W. Dubeck, Suzanne E. Moshier, and Judith E. Boss, will provide the substantive scientific content as well as plot descriptions of most of the science fiction films to be used.  The class will consist of a discussion of the physical principles relevant to the science fiction films selected. Each film will be analyzed as to whether it accurately portrays the real world, or violates basic physical laws.