sentrifugian

Sentrifugian is a term coined by American author and critic Joanna Russ in her 1975 essay "The Mechanics of Science Fiction." It refers to the fictional practice of displacing individuals or groups from their own time or place into a new environment, often for scientific or social experimentation. This concept is a recurring motif in science fiction literature and film.

The core idea behind sentrifugian narratives involves the forced adaptation of characters to unfamiliar circumstances. This displacement can be voluntary or involuntary, but it invariably leads to a re-evaluation of the characters' identities and societal norms. The "fugian" part of the word relates to fugitives or refugees, suggesting a sense of being lost or transplanted.

Sentrifugian scenarios often explore themes of cultural shock, social engineering, and the nature of humanity when stripped of its familiar context. Examples can be found in stories where characters are sent to alien planets, future societies, or even alternate dimensions. The effectiveness of these narratives often hinges on how convincingly the author portrays the characters' struggles and their eventual integration or rejection of their new surroundings. The term highlights a specific trope within the genre that prompts examination of societal structures and individual resilience.