Well, both religion and science fiction often deal with the concept of a higher purpose or meaning. Religion provides answers about the purpose of life, and science fiction sometimes explores the purpose of humanity in the universe, especially in stories about space exploration and the search for extraterrestrial life. Additionally, they both use symbols and allegories. In religion, there are numerous symbols like the cross in Christianity. In science fiction, things like the spaceship can be a symbol of human exploration and progress.
They both often deal with big questions about the nature of existence, humanity's place in the universe, and the search for meaning.
Another theme is the role of faith in a scientific or technological world. Some novels explore whether faith can co - exist with advanced technology. In 'Foundation' by Isaac Asimov, Hari Seldon's plan for the future of humanity has elements that could be seen as almost a religious belief in the power of psychohistory, while at the same time dealing with a highly scientific and technological civilization.
One major difference is the basis of their existence. Religion is based on faith and often has a long - established religious text or oral tradition as its foundation. Science fiction is based on the imagination of writers using scientific concepts. For example, religious beliefs about angels are based on faith - based teachings, while science - fiction concepts like warp drive in 'Star Trek' are based on scientific theories taken to extreme imaginative levels.
Science fiction often has elements that can be seen as a form of 'religion'. It could refer to the deep belief and following that fans have for the ideas, worlds, and concepts within science fiction. For example, the Star Trek fandom has a strong sense of community and shared values based on the show's utopian future vision, much like a religious community.
Religion is not science fiction. Science fiction typically involves imagined technological or futuristic concepts. Religion, on the other hand, is based on beliefs, values, and traditions that have developed over time and have a significant impact on people's lives and cultures.
Another example is 'Battlestar Galactica'. The show deals with the idea of a monotheistic religion among the humans in a science - fiction context. Their religious beliefs are constantly tested as they face the threat of the Cylons. It shows how religion can be a source of hope and unity in a desperate situation, but also how it can be a point of conflict, especially when different interpretations arise among the characters.
In science fiction, religion might be employed to explore themes of faith, destiny, and the unknown. It can also be a source of power or a tool for social control in fictional societies.
One impact could be a new sense of community. People with shared beliefs in science - fiction - based concepts can come together. Another is that it might inspire new ways of thinking about ethics. For example, if a sci - fi story has a certain moral code for an alien species, followers might adopt a similar code.
Another is 'Hyperion' by Dan Simmons. It features a universe where different religions co - exist. The Shrike, a menacing and mysterious entity, is often associated with religious undertones. The various pilgrims in the story also have different religious beliefs that shape their journey.
The Cthulhu mythological system was neither a religion nor a science fiction novel. It was a fictional literary genre created by the fantasy P Lovecraft that described some supernatural and surreal existences and their interactions with humans. At the core of this system was Cthulhu, an ancient, dark, magical, and mysterious existence. It was usually a huge octopus-like creature with a creepy appearance and deep eyes. The storyline of Cthulhu's mythological system usually involved the interaction between humans and Cthulhu. Sometimes humans would try to resist this mysterious existence, and sometimes they would try to establish contact with it or seek its help. The works of this genre usually had strong dark, horror, and sci-fi elements. They were also influenced by many fantasy and sci-fi works.