Science Fiction and Computing

The prevalence of science fiction readership among those who create and program computers is so well-known that it has become a cliche, but the phenomenon has remained largely unexplored by scholars. What role has science fiction played in the actual development of computers and computing? Given the decline in students entering scientific, engineering and mathematical disciplines in the United States, this is a particularly important question within the realm of computer science. The 18 chapters in this critical work explore the importance of science fiction as a body of literature that has, through various means, facilitated the invention and use of computers, and continues to do so.