New Books in Science, Technology, and Society
Jordan S. Carroll, "Speculative Whiteness: Science Fiction and the Alt-Right" (U Minnesota Press, 2024)
Nov 22, 2024
Jordan S. Carroll, author of "Speculative Whiteness: Science Fiction and the Alt-Right," dives into the troubling intersection of science fiction and white supremacist ideologies. He discusses how fascists claim that only white men envision the future, creating narratives of exclusion. Carroll explores the appropriation of sci-fi by the far-right to promote racially purified utopias, while antifascist fans resist these narratives. He also critiques how the alt-right's visions of post-humanism intertwine with technological advancements and traditional ideologies.
47:08
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Quick takeaways
- Science fiction often mirrors far-right ideologies, portraying a future exclusively created by white men while excluding diverse perspectives.
- The ongoing struggle within science fiction highlights its dual role as both a progressive force and a battleground for white supremacist narratives.
Deep dives
The Intersection of Science Fiction and Race
Science fiction has become a critical arena for examining issues of race and white supremacy, particularly as it relates to the far right. The genre often reflects the belief that only white men possess the imagination and capability to envision the future, a narrative that excludes non-white individuals. This assertion is rooted in longstanding myths suggesting that white men are rational planners, whereas people of other races are viewed as archaic or impulsive. Such ideological constructs not only deny other racial groups their rightful place in speculative futures but also perpetuate a view of the future that is inherently white and male-dominated.
