Name: The real-world influence of Star Trek
Uploaded: 2024-02-09T15:35:37Z
Duration: 11 min 51 s
Description: Space isn’t part of any nation–so who gets to make the rules? If you ask space lawyer Elsbeth Magilton, we might find answers like these in a surprising place: Star Trek. Magilton explains how she’s used science fiction fandom to create a space for hard, honest, and empathetic conversations about our biggest astronomical and terrestrial problems.

Elsbeth Magilton: The real-world influence of Star Trek

The real-world influence of Star Trek

Space isn’t part of any nation–so who gets to make the rules? If you ask space lawyer Elsbeth Magilton, we might find answers like these in a surprising place: Star Trek. Magilton explains how she’s used science fiction fandom to create a space for hard, honest, and empathetic conversations about our biggest astronomical and terrestrial problems.

Using Star Trek as a springboard, science fiction transforms abstract legal and ethical issues into engaging, relatable conversations. By comparing the Prime Directive to the Outer Space Treaty, a playful exercise became a catalyst for serious debate on morality, intervention, and justice. At a Star Trek convention, this approach led to discussions on genocide, pandemics, and human rights that people rarely tackle head-on. Sci-fi stories serve as a safe sandbox, encouraging empathy and honest reflection on difficult topics.