This course investigates how writers use dystopia and science fiction to not only explore possibilities for the future but to comment on our own present society. Assigned texts will include classic dystopian works like "1984" in addition to more recent contributions to the genre from around the globe. We'll explore how novels, short stories, and even some films and podcasts comment on topics like the ethics of artificial intelligence, the threat of technological advancement, and the relationship between history and science fiction. We'll consider where this genre will go in the future and investigate why it appeals to such a vast audience.