Often, they can also be depicted as complex characters with flaws. They might be power - hungry, leading to internal conflicts within their own military or political structures. In dystopian science fiction, a general could be part of a tyrannical regime, suppressing the freedom of the people in the name of security.
Some science fiction shows war generals as relics of a bygone era, struggling to adapt to new forms of warfare, like in stories where advanced technology has made traditional military hierarchies obsolete. They may be forced to learn new ways of fighting or face being left behind.
In fiction, just war is often portrayed in various ways. Some stories show it as a necessary evil. For example, in 'The Lord of the Rings', the war against Sauron can be seen as a just war. The free peoples of Middle - earth are fighting to protect their homes, cultures, and very existence from an evil and tyrannical force. The heroes are reluctant warriors at first, but they realize the importance of the fight.
In fiction, nuclear war is often depicted as a cataclysmic event. For example, in 'On the Beach', it shows the slow and inevitable doom that follows a nuclear exchange. The world is left desolate, with survivors facing not only the lack of resources but also the psychological trauma.
In some science fiction, NATO might be shown as a unified military force against extraterrestrial threats. For example, in certain novels, NATO could be the main alliance coordinating Earth's defenses, with its advanced military technology and strategic planning being crucial in battles against alien invaders.
In science fiction, 'god' can be portrayed in various ways. Sometimes it's an all - powerful being from another dimension, like in some space - opera novels where a god - like entity controls the fate of galaxies. Other times, it could be a highly advanced alien race that primitive humans mistake for gods.
In science fiction, synth is often portrayed as highly advanced human - like beings. They can be seen as servants or workers, performing tasks that are too dangerous or mundane for humans. For example, in some stories, synths are used in space exploration or mining operations.
In science fiction, money can be portrayed in various ways. Sometimes it's like our current currency but used in a futuristic setting. For example, in the 'Blade Runner' universe, there is still a form of currency for transactions. It can also be something more abstract, like in some stories where energy or a rare resource serves as money. This shows how different values can be placed on things in a fictional future world.
Dogs are often portrayed as loyal companions in science - fiction. Just like in normal stories, but in a sci - fi setting. For example, they might accompany a space explorer on a dangerous mission across the galaxy.
In science fiction, magic is often re - imagined in technological or scientific terms. For example, in 'Star Wars', the Force can be seen as a kind of magic, but it's also related to midi - chlorians in the characters' cells, which gives it a scientific underpinning.
Science fiction portrays greed in various ways. It can be the pursuit of rare and valuable items, like in 'The Fifth Element' where the main antagonist is greedy for the stones that can save the universe, but he wants them for his own power. Greed is also shown in terms of territorial expansion, similar to how in some space - exploration based science fiction, certain factions try to claim as many planets or star systems as they can for their own wealth and influence. And often, the consequences of this greed are dire, such as the destruction of relationships, civilizations, or entire planets.
In science fiction, cybernetics is often portrayed as a means to enhance human capabilities. For example, in the 'Cyberpunk' genre, characters might have cybernetic implants that give them superhuman strength or the ability to interface directly with computer systems. It can also be shown as a way to blur the line between man and machine, leading to complex questions about identity.