Utopias and dystopias in times of social uncertainty

The research project is dedicated to the question of why utopian and dystopian science fiction stories exert a fascination on readers, especially in the context of fear of the future and social insecurity.

The focus here is on the reading preferences of different types of readers who oscillate between universe-fascinated worldbuilders, escapist adventurers and visionary thinkers. On the one hand, science fiction allows readers to immerse themselves in alien worlds and temporarily free themselves from the constraints of everyday life. On the other hand, it opens up spaces for the development of humanistic utopias, which initially represent a field of intellectual experimentation that can provide orientation in uncertain times. The genre thus fulfils both escapist needs and the desire for a meaningful examination of visions of the future.

In order to capture these dimensions, empirical surveys are conducted with readers as well as qualitative interviews with authors of science fiction novels. The aim is to gain a comprehensive picture of the function, impact and relevance of utopian narratives in the present day.

• Responsible: Professorship of Life Quality, Spirituality and Coping
• Duration: 2 years
• Funding: none
• Cooperation partner:PERRY RHODAN fan centre