Susan Sontag: 'Science fiction films are not about science. They are about disaster, which is one of the oldest subjects of art.'

Science fiction films are not about science. They are about disaster, which is one of the oldest subjects of art.

In her thought-provoking quote, Susan Sontag encapsulates the essence of science fiction films by asserting that they are not primarily concerned with science, but rather with disaster, a subject deeply rooted in the history of art. This perspective sheds light on the underlying themes and motifs that permeate the genre, drawing attention to the universal nature of catastrophe as a reflective lens for exploring the human condition.By stating that science fiction films are not about science, Sontag challenges the common assumption that the genre revolves solely around futuristic technologies and scientific advancements. Instead, she implies that science serves merely as a backdrop, a catalyst for the exploration of calamitous events and their impact on individuals, societies, and the wider world. Thus, within science fiction, science acts as a conduit to explore the moral, psychological, and societal consequences that arise from catastrophic scenarios.Sontag's assertion regarding disaster as one of the oldest subjects of art reminds us of the historical significance attached to the portrayal of calamities in creative expression. Throughout history, artists have depicted disaster in various art forms - from epic poems to paintings, sculptures, and, in contemporary times, films. By associating science fiction films with this timeless artistic theme, Sontag highlights their capacity to capture the human fascination with, and interpretation of, catastrophic events.Interestingly, Sontag's quote introduces an unexpected philosophical concept when one considers that disaster, in essence, represents a disruption or subversion of the norm. By delving into the imagined realms of science fiction, we confront the boundaries of existence and challenge the very fabric of our perceived reality. Science fiction provides a metaphorical platform for contemplating the fragility of human existence, the potential consequences of unchecked progress, and the moral dilemmas that arise from confronting unforeseen circumstances.When we view science fiction films through this philosophical lens, the genre's significance becomes even more apparent. These films compel us to reflect on our own vulnerabilities, fears, and the precarious balance between technological advancement and potential ruin. The disaster scenarios depicted in science fiction invite us to question our assumptions and confront our capacity for both creation and destruction.Contrasting the emphasis on disaster with the backdrop of science, we can identify a dichotomy between the immense power of human intellect and the immense potential for mishap or unintended consequences. Science offers humanity the means to transform our world, but it also exposes us to risks and uncertainties. Science fiction films serve as cautionary tales, urging us to tread carefully and thoughtfully in our pursuit of progress.Ultimately, Sontag's insightful quote provides us with a fresh perspective on the true nature and purpose of science fiction films. By focusing on the exploration of disaster as a subject matter rather than science as a discipline, these films propel us into realms of introspection, contemplation, and speculation. They remind us of our mortality, our capacity for both creation and destruction, and the delicate balance we must maintain as caretakers of our own existence. Science fiction, then, becomes a powerful artistic vehicle through which we can engage in a ceaseless dialogue about the human condition, drawing upon the oldest subjects of art to probe our innermost fears and aspirations.