Words like "force," "field," "radiation," "black hole" and "antimatter" are part of our culture; science fiction movies and popular science magazines use them all the time. What do these words really mean? How much of what we see in science fiction is based on real science and how much is pure fantasy? This course will emphasize the meanings of science terms and the way scientists really work, without getting bogged down in mathematics. Our goal will be to understand science terms and claims when we encounter them in fiction and the popular press. We will read several short stories and novels from the leading science fiction writers; we will also have in-class demonstrations of things like lasers, cryogenics, and electric fields. Students will be encouraged to bring in their own examples of science fiction literature that highlight some physics concept (or misconception) to share with the rest of the class. Starting with Newtonian physics, this course surveys modern physics including Quantum Mechanics and Einstein's Theory of Relativity. Along the way, we will discuss whether travel to other stars is possible, conditions for the existence of life, and whether other "dimensions" exist. This course fulfills the Physical Science course requirement for School of Arts and Sciences students.