O potrzebie optymizmu w fantastyce naukowej

Abstract

This article examines the role of optimism, a philosophical-psychological category, in science fiction literature discourse. Pessimism, the counterpoint to optimism, clearly dominates the contemporary form of this genre. Conversely, optimism in science fiction increasingly demands a deliberate stance from writers and readers, challenging the predominance of pessimism. The author identifies genre characteristics that lend themselves to optimistic perspectives and offers an overview of periods in science fiction history where optimism prevailed. Additionally, the article highlights projects where science fiction intersects with social activism.