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This is a tremendous book, and a great example of thoughtful science fiction. It surprised me to learn it was written in 1985, and while Sagan sought to look into the near future to explore scientific discovery and experimental theology, he clearly didn’t see the end of the Soviet Union coming. The popular movie, starring Jodie Foster as Ellie and Matthew McConaughey as a more prominent Joss, is one of my favorite films from childhood. It captures a sense of awe in science and discovering our reality, and navigates questions of skepticism and faith.
What surprised me, then, are the ways in which this book deviates. It is in part rooted in Cold War rivalries and therefore features more geopolitics, but the most fundamental change is that of religion. Ellie is still a militant agnostic who spars with theological leaders, but she encounters in her journey a much more concrete understanding of the universe. Her story is still difficult for many to believe, but her resolve and religious awakening is built on bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and mere faith in the unknown.
What surprised me, then, are the ways in which this book deviates. It is in part rooted in Cold War rivalries and therefore features more geopolitics, but the most fundamental change is that of religion. Ellie is still a militant agnostic who spars with theological leaders, but she encounters in her journey a much more concrete understanding of the universe. Her story is still difficult for many to believe, but her resolve and religious awakening is built on bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and mere faith in the unknown.