Female Scientists in Science Fiction - A Case Study of "The Three-Body Problem"

Professor Introduction

S. Z| Ph.D. in  Comparative Literature

Home Institute：Purdue University.

Project Description

This course aims to analyze the portrayal of female scientists in science fiction, using "The Three-Body Problem" by Liu Cixin as a case study. The project will explore the depiction of female characters in technological fields, examining their challenges and survival within the narrative. By integrating theories and current trends in STEM education, the study will dissect the personal and professional obstacles faced by women. The project will address questions such as whether female and male scientists are portrayed differently in science fiction, how these differences are depicted by the author, and what gender perspectives are reflected in character development. Additionally, it will explore the unique challenges faced by female scientists and the implications of science fiction for contemporary STEM education. Through this comprehensive analysis, students will gain a deeper understanding of the representation of women in science fiction and the broader context of women in STEM.

Project Keywords

Project Outline

Part 1: Introduction to Science Fiction and Gender Studies
• Overview of fundamental concepts in science fiction and gender studies.
• Historical context of female representation in science fiction.
• Applications and relevance to current literary and sociological research.

Part 2: Theoretical Frameworks
• Exploration of theories related to gender studies and STEM education.
• Examination of key feminist and sociological principles (e.g., intersectionality, gender bias).
• Discussion on the role of literature in reflecting and shaping gender perspectives.

Part 3:  Literature Review
• In-depth reading and analysis of existing literature on female representation in science fiction.
• Identification of major viewpoints and debates in current research.
• Discussion on research gaps and the significance of this study.

Part 4:  Research Methods
• Introduction to qualitative research methods used in literary and sociological studies.
• Techniques for textual analysis, character analysis, and thematic analysis.
• Practical exercises to develop research skills.

Part 5:  Character Analysis in "The Three-Body Problem"
• Detailed exploration of the portrayal of female scientists in "The Three-Body Problem".
• Examination of key female characters and their roles in the narrative.
• Analysis of character development and depiction of gender perspectives.

Part 6:  Comparative Analysis of Male and Female Scientists
• Comparative analysis of the portrayal of male and female scientists in the novel.
• Identification of similarities and differences in their representation.
• Discussion on the implications of these differences for gender perspectives in science fiction.

Part 7: Challenges Faced by Female Scientists
• Exploration of the unique challenges faced by female scientists in the narrative.
• Examination of personal and professional obstacles and their impact on character development.
• Discussion on the broader context of women in STEM fields.

Part 8: Implications for STEM Education
• Analysis of the implications of science fiction for contemporary STEM education.
• Discussion on the potential of science fiction to inspire and inform STEM education.
• Practical suggestions for integrating literary analysis into STEM education.

Part 9:  Empirical Results and Discussion
• Presentation and interpretation of research findings.
• Discussion of the significance and impact of findings.
• Identification of research limitations and suggestions for improvement.

Part 10:  Ethical and Practical Implications
• Exploration of ethical and practical implications of gender representation in literature.
• Discussion on the role of literature in promoting gender equality in STEM fields.
• Practical suggestions for addressing gender bias in literary and educational contexts.

Part 11: Future Research Directions
• Discussion of current trends and challenges in the study of gender representation in literature.
• Identification of open problems and future research directions.
• Encouragement for student-led research projects.

Part 12: Conclusion and Summary
• Summary of the main findings and conclusions.
• Discussion of contributions to literature and sociology.
• Recommendations for future research and practice.

Part 13: Research Paper and Presentation
• Guidance on writing a well-structured research paper.
• Tips for effective academic writing.
• Instructions on preparing and delivering an engaging oral presentation.

Suitable for

High School Students:  
• Interested in literature and gender studies, preparing for advanced studies or competitions.
• Basic knowledge of literary analysis and gender theories.

University Students:
• Majoring in literature, sociology, or related fields, seeking to deepen understanding and engage in research.
• Familiar with basic theories of literary criticism and gender studies.