Soft science fiction
Soft science fiction is science fiction whose plots and themes tend to focus on philosophy, psychology, politics and sociology while de-emphasizing the details of technological hardware and physical laws. It is so-called 'Soft' Science Fiction, because these subjects are grouped together as the Soft Sciences or Humanities.For instance, Frank Herbert in Dune, uses the plot device of creating a universe which has rejected conscious machines and has reverted to a Feudal organisation. Consequently Herbert uses the Dune saga to comment about the human condition and makes direct and accurate parallels to current socio-political realities.
Soft Science fiction may explore the reactions of societies or individuals to problems posed by natural phenomena or technological developments, but the technology will be a means to an end, not an end itself.
Authors often thought of as exemplifying soft science fiction:
- Ray Bradbury
- Ursula K. Le Guin
- Frank Herbert
- Orson Scott Card
- Nancy Kress
- Lois McMaster Bujold
- Joan Vinge
- L.E.Modessit Jnr
- David Zindell
