Imaginary Worlds

In this work, the author contends that we should create a comparative framework for the study of imaginary worlds in thesocial sciences. Making use of extended examples from both science fiction and fantasy fiction, as well as the livingmovement of steampunk, the reader is invited to an argument about how best to define imaginary worlds and approach themas social locations for qualitative research. It is suggested in this volume that increasing economic and existentialforms of alienation fuel the contemporary surge of participation in imaginary worlds (from gaming worlds to young adultnovels) and impel a search for more humane forms of social and cultural organization. Suggestions are made about theusefulness of imaginary worlds to social scientists as places for both testing out theoretical formulations and as tools for teaching in our classrooms.