BY HERMAN M. LAGON
THE APPEAL of science and technology is not just a job route for many of us who grew up in the period of brilliant science fiction and saw the birth of the digital age; it is a calling that mirrors the adventures and discoveries we dreamed of as kids. This feeling of awe, frequently sparked by the fantastical settings of films like George Lucas’ Star Wars franchise, has not only delighted us but also gently informed and uplifted us. Last Saturday, “May the 4th,” the playful echo of “May the Force be with you” resonates especially, illustrating the enduring impact of Star Wars not only on popular culture but also in inspiring future generations to pursue careers in science, engineering, and math.
For many of us, including the hard-core geeks, the Star Wars world was more than simply a means of escape, thanks to its diverse cast of people, tales, and galaxies. The finer points of its science fiction created a playground for the mind, pushing the bounds of what was conceivable. This was not science fiction; instead, it was a glimpse into a future in which technology and science would be the means of discovering other worlds. This visionary quality, which links entertainment and education and the present and future, makes it worthwhile for the current generation to revisit.
With its hovering landspeeders and powerful Death Star, Star Wars exposed viewers to previously unimaginable ideas. However, we can still witness remnants of these inventions in the modern world. Consider the holographic messages that R2-D2 projected. This once-fanciful communication style is remarkably similar to contemporary holographic display technology, which is starting to appear in telecommunication and marketing applications. It is an obvious indication that what was formerly the purview of science fiction is becoming increasingly plausible.
The idea of droids similar to C-3PO and R2-D2 is another noteworthy prediction that mirrors current developments in robotics and AI. These companions were more than just instruments; they were sentient beings with personalities, a precursor to how AI has developed to become more conversational and empathetic in its reactions. This fusion of purpose and personality is reflected in the development of autonomous robots for various jobs, from companionship to industrial manufacturing, demonstrating the foresight of Lucas’ universe.
The bacta tank, a medical technology for quick healing, was also introduced to us in the story. Regenerative medicine is moving toward comparable results by creating tissues and organs for transplantation utilizing technologies like bioprinting. This science fiction idea is about to become a scientific reality, proving that motion pictures have the power to spur advancements in medicine.
Beyond the technology projections, Star Wars featured numerous philosophical discussions that have endured over time. Jedi Master Yoda declares in “The Phantom Menace”: “Fear is the path to the dark side.” This upfront stare at human nature sheds light on the need to regulate, if not control, one’s emotions and the “butterfly effect” that can go from fear to anger to hatred and probably intergalactic annihilation.
Those embarking on dangerous missions were initially wished good luck and farewell with the now-iconic phrase “May the force be with you” in 1977. Since then, the word has become a beloved catchphrase from the Star Wars series, representing optimism, direction, and the strength of the Force. “Rey, the Force will be with you,” was repeated by none other than Luke to Rey 42 years and numerous episodes later. Always,” during a crucial moment in the 2019 “Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker,” citing the timeless and enduring nature of the Force and the guidance it provides to those who wield it. We shall dedicate one column to “The Force” alone soon. (To be continued)/PN
