Sci-fi simplified
Born From Science, Haunted By Limits
Aditri Bhatnagar, AIS Saket, XI C
Writing science fiction is no cakewalk. The author must build an entire world from scratch, setting a premise that pushes the boundaries of scientific thought. In these fictitious realms live wonderous nature-defying heroes, mad scientists, terrible, terrible villains and adorable side-kick extra-terrestrial beings. These personas aren’t creations of the imagination alone; they are based on some serious science. Step into the sci-fi cosmos and explore the fascinating backstories of some of these beloved characters.
Psychic powers
Netflix briefly crashed when the finale of ‘Stranger Things’ was released, a testament to its popularity. Much of its success has been credited to Eleven, whose origins were inspired from Cold War-era CIA programmes such as Project MKUltra and Project Star Gate that explored psychokinetic and telepathic powers. While these powers remain unproven, the show reflects historical fears about unethical human experimentation. Eleven’s love for Eggo waffles adds humour and warmth, reminding us that beneath her strength is a traumatised child, and not a weapon of science.
Electricity gone wrong
‘Frankenstein’ was the first sci-fi novel, a Gothic horror, a tragic romance and a parable all sewn into one. Mary Shelley wrote the book at a time when scientists were studying electricity, anatomy, and the idea of reviving the dead through galvanism. Frankenstein’s creation is a paradox - a terrifying figure of awe and horror, driven by human yearning of companionship and acceptance.
One mind, two monsters
Another memorable figure shaped by scientific disposition is Dr Jekyll from the 1886 ‘The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde’. The story reflects the era’s growing interest in psychology and Darwin’s theory of evolution. Hyde, described as animalistic, represents the primitive instincts existing within humans. Jekyll’s experiment, both physical and psychological, questions whether science can truly separate good from evil.
AI trouble
Long before the modern debate on AI, HAL 9000 from ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’ embodied early fears about machines surpassing humans. Calm, logical, and efficient, HAL turns deadly when faced with conflicting commands. Inspired by 1960s AI research and NASA’s IBM computers, legend says
HAL’s name came from shifting each letter before IBM - though director Stanley Kubrick and author Arthur C. Clarke denied it.
These sci-fi characters persist because they reflect both ambition and moral imperative. Such stories encourage us to think not only about what man is capable of creating but also about what we should.
View Archives
