How can one define the best science fiction?

I think 'best brainy science fiction' is about stories that engage your mind on multiple levels. For example, they might have intricate plots that require you to keep up with a lot of details, like in 'The Three - Body Problem' which has a complex web of scientific, political, and cultural elements. They also tend to have strong philosophical undercurrents, such as the exploration of free will and determinism in 'A Clockwork Orange'. These works are not just about entertainment but also about expanding your mental horizons.

It's often about how normal people react to a scientific or technological change. Let's say a new form of communication is invented. In mundane science fiction, it won't be about using it to contact aliens but rather how it changes the relationships between neighbors or co - workers. It's the exploration of the human experience within a slightly altered scientific or technological landscape. It doesn't rely on huge, over - the - top concepts but rather on the relatable and the ordinary.

The best dystopian science fiction often has a unique and well - thought - out setting. For example, in '1984', the setting of a constantly monitored society is very distinct. It also has engaging characters that the reader can either relate to or be horrified by. In 'The Hunger Games', Katniss is a strong and relatable character. And it usually has a deeper message, like how 'Brave New World' critiques consumerism and control.

The best military science fiction usually combines action - packed military scenes with deeper themes. In 'Old Man's War', there's the action of battles in space, but also themes of sacrifice and the value of human life in a military context. It should also be able to create a unique and immersive military universe. 'Ghost Fleet' does this by creating a future naval warfare scenario that feels both exciting and plausible. And the character development within the military framework is also crucial, like in 'Red Rising' where the main character's growth is intertwined with the military hierarchy he navigates.

The best space opera science fiction can be defined by several factors. Firstly, it needs to have a unique and interesting setting. This could be a post - apocalyptic space - faring society or a utopian galactic civilization. Secondly, the story should be engaging from start to finish. It should keep you on the edge of your seat, like the twists and turns in 'Dune'. Thirdly, it should have a certain level of depth. It should explore themes such as morality, power, and human nature, just as 'Foundation' does.

Defining 'best fiction fiction' is tough. One way could be by looking at the popularity and the number of readers it has attracted over time. For example, 'The Lord of the Rings' has been extremely popular for decades, so it might be considered as part of the best fiction fiction due to its wide - reaching appeal.

The best anarchist fiction often challenges authority in a creative way. It shows the flaws in hierarchical systems and promotes the idea of self - governance.

Best suburban fiction can be defined as stories that accurately and engagingly depict life in the suburbs. It often includes elements like the daily routines, the social hierarchies, and the unspoken rules of suburban living. For example, it might show how neighbors interact, the pressure to conform, and the dreams and frustrations of suburban residents.

The best absurd fiction often defies traditional logic and narrative structures. It presents situations that are out of the ordinary and make the reader question reality. For example, if a story has characters who can fly without any explanation or a world where time runs backwards for no obvious reason.

Best leftist fiction can be defined as works that advocate for social equality, workers' rights, and the redistribution of wealth. For example, works that show the struggles of the working class against exploitation, like Sinclair's 'The Jungle'.