Does Sci-Fi Shape the Future?

***Note to Attendees: Please consider making a $5 donation to contribute to the running costs of this Meetup.*** Science fiction has always been about more than spaceships, robots, and alien worlds. At its best, it asks profound questions about humanity, technology, and the direction of civilization itself. As Ursula K. Le Guin wrote, *“Science fiction is not predictive; it is descriptive.”* Yet many of the technologies and ideas once imagined in science fiction have gone on to shape the real world, raising an intriguing question: are writers simply anticipating the future, or helping to create it? At this Gold Coast meetup, we’ll discuss the enduring appeal of science fiction, what distinguishes great works from mediocre ones, and whether the genre still has the power to shape how we imagine tomorrow. The questions we will address are: 1. **What makes for “good” science fiction?** 2. **Does science fiction predict the future, or create it?** 3. **Are optimistic visions of the future more valuable than dystopian ones?** 4. **Does the best science fiction tell us more about the future, or about ourselves?** This event will be held at **SOPO Brewing Co.** on the **Gold Coast**. It is near CSi Club Southport. This is NOT to be confused with SOPO Southport (near the library). After the discussion, we’ll stay on for a meal and a drink together — a chance to continue the conversation in a more relaxed setting and support the venue. **PLEASE NOTE:** Please support the venue by purchasing a drink or meal during the event. This is intended to be a good-natured but robust discussion. Please be respectful and prepared to have your ideas challenged. If you are easily offended, this event may not be for you.