How come sci-fi has such a connection with the issue of parenthood?

Perhaps thats natural, considering it deals with the future of humanity.

So what can we learn about our obsession with generational conflict through science fiction?

Here are a few rules that we can make about parenting through examining the 1990s science fiction universe.

For example, take rule number one:

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1.

Fatherhood is the worst job in the world

Being a father is hard.

We all know that.

Unless youre a 1990s sci-fi dad.

But at least youll get an emotional satlink moment with her before you die.

Thatll make it all worthwhile, because youre a father.

And thats enough for you.

Youve lived your life, right?

Will your daughter notice?

No, she will not.

Meanwhile, youll constantly worry about her even though she hasnt noticed youve gone.

Because worrying is what fathers do.

The Contact Conundrum You have a beautiful daughter who deserves a long and happy life.

This would be the perfect relationship, except you have to be dead for all this to happen.

Your child is right and you are wrong.

Even if they are actually on drugs.

Yes, your child is much more likely to spot the problem, resolve it, and outlive it.

TakeDeep Impact does NASA first identify the comet that is going to smash into Earth and destroy us all?

The teenager decides not to take up that place.

Give the teenager your baby and wave them goodbye.

If your children dont solve the problem then bear in mind they might wellbethe problem.

No matter what happens in this film, its going to end badly.

Its a lose-lose situation.

The parenting instinct is universal, and nothing but trouble…

Feeling like you want to protect that little life?

Its not going to end well.

Which is about as cute as it sounds.

If only the same could be said of Charlize Theron inThe Astronauts Wife.

But pregnancy is her nemesis.

Suddenly shes doey-eyed about her offspring, and the Earth is probably doomed.

…Unless the kids arent yours to begin with

So heres the light at the end of the wormhole.

But that bad parenting decision is Sam Neills and Laura Derns gain.

Its a good thing theyre both such great actors.

Theyll never call, you know.