Paraphrase: sf makes the scientific assumption that the universe is comprehensible whereas fantasy is free to assume "...the completely supernatural...forever unamenable to the scientific method." (p. 271) It is necessary to explain teleportation or faster-than-light space travel but not the powers of magicians or gods.
However, in quantum mechanics and in possibilities like naked singularities, science approaches the bounds of comprehensibility. Furthermore, fantasy is rooted in prehistoric traditions stemming from ancient times when human beings marveled at nature and stood in awe of the unknown. We cannot return to our earliest state but nevertheless should remember our origins.
Kaor, Paul!
ReplyDeleteI would, however, change the first sentence of your second paragraph: "However, in quantum mechanics and possibilities like naked singularities, science approaches incomprehensibility." I am not at all sure everything that is speculatively possible, such as alternate/parallel universes, is understandable. Knowledge, or possible knowledge, is infinite, but all human minds are finite. Meaning there is always going to be something unknown to us.
Ad astra! Sean