Literature and Science Find Common Ground

Why this is here: Carl Djerassi, inventor of the birth control pill, termed the intersection of science and fiction as “science in fiction”—stories set behind the scenes in labs and at conferences.

In Argentina, the Institut français d’Argentine and partner organizations are hosting the 10th edition of La Noche de las Ideas on May 22 and 23. The event explores the surprisingly close relationship between art and science, particularly within contemporary literature. The author notes that scientific papers resemble literary exercises in persuasion, while crafting a story demands a mathematical precision.

This connection extends beyond science fiction, encompassing works where scientific arguments bolster a narrative’s credibility. Authors like Ian McEwan and Michael Crichton captivate readers with scientifically informed plots, and Argentine writers such as Eduardo Holmberg and Guillermo Martínez also blend science into their fiction.

Conversely, scientific essays by writers like Oliver Sacks and Richard Dawkins can evoke emotional responses similar to those inspired by art. A discussion between Phoebe Hadjimarkos-Clarke and Diego Golombek will address communicating science amidst misinformation. The full scope of these connections, however, remains an area for continued exploration.