#23 – Overpopulation and Environmental Collapse – A Reader's History of Science Fiction
In the 60s and 70s, awareness of environmental issues was rising, and that was reflected in the New Wave of science fiction. Of particular note were overpopulation and pollution (leading to widespread environmental collapse). In this episode, we explore the highlights of this subgenre. Book recommendation: Stand on Zanzibar by John Brunner Other books mentioned: Make Room! Make Room! by Harry Harrison The Sheep Look Up by John Brunner The Windup Girl by Paolo Bacigalupi Paolo Bacigalupi interview on The Windup Girl
Robert Heinlein’s later career went to some unusual places, including books with heavy philosophical and political themes, while still continuing with his classic hard sci-fi rigor. In this episode, we explore the highlights of his later work.
Book recommendation: The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress.
Other books mentioned:
Starship Troopers
Stranger in a Strange Land
Time Enough for Love
Floyd Gale on Starship Troopers.
Cory Doctorow on Heinlein’s less savory works.
