Final answer:
Readers with more scientific knowledge engage with science fiction stories critically, focusing on the plausibility of depicted technologies and their societal impact. Science fiction reflects current societal concerns and stimulates thought and debate about the future of science and technology.
Step-by-step explanation:
Today's readers have a more extensive scientific knowledge than readers of previous eras, which affects their engagement with science fiction stories. With advancements in education and technology, readers have become more knowledgeable about scientific principles and are thus more critical of the plausibility of the science in fiction they read. Real-world scientific discoveries and theories, like those about black holes as depicted in the film Interstellar, are now more commonly integrated into science fiction narratives, driving writers to maintain a level of scientific accuracy to satisfy an informed audience. Furthermore, as our understanding of science expands, science fiction often explores the societal and ethical implications of these advancements, depicting not merely technological changes but their potential impacts on society and humanity.
Moreover, science fiction can be a reflection of current societal concerns, with themes such as environmental issues, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology resonating with readers who are well-versed in these subjects. The genre serves as a tool for readers to explore and question the direction in which technology and science are taking us, and whether the benefits come with undesirable consequences for society at large. This literature often stimulates thought, debate and serves as a cautionary tale, encouraging a more profound philosophical examination of our times and possible futures.