This Is Not A Science Fiction Textb...
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The book has been read, but is in excellent condition. Pages are intact and not marred by notes or highlighting. The spine remains undamaged.
Book Summary
Steven Shaviro's 'This Is Not A Science Fiction Textbook' is a provocative critical essay collection that challenges how we think about science fiction. Rather than a conventional textbook, it offers philosophical and cultural analysis of SF's themes, politics, and aesthetics. This used copy is in excellent condition, making it an affordable entry point for readers interested in serious SF criticism and media theory.
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About This Is Not A Science Fiction Textb...
Despite its title, this book is not a standard science fiction textbook but a work of critical theory by Steven Shaviro, a noted scholar of media and culture. Shaviro examines science fiction as a mode of thought that grapples with technology, capitalism, and the future. The book collects essays that explore SF's philosophical dimensions, its engagement with posthumanism, and its political imaginaries. Readers should expect rigorous argumentation rather than plot summaries or genre surveys. The volume is ideal for those who want to think deeply about what SF does and why it matters. This secondhand copy is described as being in excellent condition, with intact pages and an undamaged spine, though it has been read.
Who should read This Is Not A Science Fiction Textb...?
This book suits advanced undergraduates, graduate students, and scholars in literary studies, media theory, and cultural studies who are interested in science fiction as a serious intellectual subject. It also appeals to thoughtful SF fans who want to move beyond entertainment and engage with critical perspectives on the genre. Readers familiar with continental philosophy or film theory will find Shaviro's approach rewarding. It is not intended for beginners seeking an introduction to SF literature or a conventional textbook for classroom use.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Offers original philosophical insights into science fiction as a cultural form
- ✓ Written by a respected scholar in media and cultural theory
- ✓ Encourages critical thinking about technology, politics, and the future
- ✓ Concise essays that are intellectually stimulating and provocative
- ✓ Used copy in excellent condition provides good value
Cons
- ✗ Not a traditional textbook; may disappoint those expecting a genre overview
- ✗ Assumes familiarity with critical theory, making it challenging for newcomers
- ✗ Lacks pedagogical features like discussion questions or further reading lists
- ✗ Dense prose may be slow going for casual readers
- ✗ Limited coverage of classic SF authors and historical context
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Frequently asked questions
Is this a textbook suitable for a science fiction course?
No, despite the title, it is a collection of critical essays rather than a structured textbook. It could serve as supplementary reading in advanced courses, but it does not provide a systematic introduction to the genre.
What condition is this used copy in?
The description states the book has been read but is in excellent condition: pages are intact, with no notes or highlighting, and the spine is undamaged.
Who is Steven Shaviro?
Steven Shaviro is a cultural critic and professor known for his work on film, media, science fiction, and philosophy. He has written influential books such as 'Doom Patrols' and 'Connected, or What It Means to Live in the Network Society'.
Does the book cover specific science fiction novels or authors?
It engages with SF texts and films as examples, but it is not a survey of authors or subgenres. The focus is on theoretical and philosophical arguments about SF as a mode of thought.
Is this book accessible to someone new to literary theory?
It may be challenging for readers without some background in critical theory. Shaviro's writing is sophisticated and assumes familiarity with concepts from philosophy and cultural studies.
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