Why scream about sound in space? The functions of audience discourse about unrealistic science in narrative fiction

Abstract

Sound in space. Featherless dinosaurs. Physics-defying stunts. Unrealistic science in narrative fiction is often a subject of commentary and critique. However, there is limited research investigating the significance, risks and benefits of this discourse for audiences. This article analyses interviews and focus group discussions to develop a typology of functions that are served by audience discourse about the perceived realism of science in fiction. This typology illustrates how discourse about the realism of science in fiction can serve diverse functions for diverse audiences. Practitioners who use fictional examples in science communication may benefit from an awareness of the multifaceted nature of the discourse in which they are participating.