CALL FOR PROPOSALS: 60 Years of Star Trek: Influence and Impact
deadline for submissions: April 4, 2024
contact email: Craig A. MeyerStarTrekBk
For almost sixty years, Star Trek has served as more than just a television series or a film franchise; it has become a cultural phenomenon, a beacon of hope, and a mirror reflecting humanity’s aspirations and struggles. Born from the visionary mind of Gene Roddenberry in the 1960s, Star Trek emerged during a time of social and political upheaval, offering audiences a compelling vision of the future where humanity had transcended its earthly divisions and embarked on a collective journey towards exploration, discovery, and understanding. From its beginnings aboard the starship Enterprise to its expansion across multiple series, films, books, and multimedia platforms, Star Trek has captivated generations with its enduring themes of diversity, inclusion, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. As we delve into the rich tapestry of Star Trek’s cultural influence, we invite chapter proposals exploring the myriad ways in which this beloved franchise has shaped our collective imagination and inspired real-world change.
What began as a single show in 1966 evolved into the ever-expanding global franchise that currently has twelve series and thirteen films and not nearly enough scholarship. This edited collection seeks to close that gap. The editorsinvite chapters for a volume about the impact of Star Trek on popular culture over the last 60 years. We want to explore what the franchise means for this planet, and our potential for the future that Roddenberry and others placed before us. Just as important, we want to explore how we, as humans, have been impacted by this franchise
This edited, academic, and multidisciplinary book will expand the various analyses of Star Trek and its influence. While we respect the array of Trek books, this collection will focus on the multiple series and films. Completed chapters will be between 4000-6000 words (all inclusive: text, notes, references, etc.).
Authors are encouraged to submit proposals exploring, but not limited to, the following areas:
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How has the franchise changed our understanding of the world and/or the people in it?
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How has Star Trek influenced cultural/societal change?
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What longitudinal perspectives guide the franchise? How has Trek changed throughout its own history? How did/does that reflect current cultural trends?
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Authors are encouraged to consider these themes broadly:
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Religion(s)
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Areas of Ethics
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Political perspectives
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Military use
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Drug (ab)use
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Identity
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Technology
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Federation or “Other” ideologies
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Race (broadly defined)
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(Dis)Ability
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Representation
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Gender
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Equality
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Cultural differences (first contact, different species, communication, etc.)
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Relationships (family, parenting, friends, partners, etc.)
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Legal, crime, punishment
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End of life, life span
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Literacy/education
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Climate/environment/conservation
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Music
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Humor
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Optimism of Trek
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What stories/episodes have had a meaningful impact and how/why?
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What have we learned about ourselves from Star Trek?
Chapter proposals of no more than 300 words should be submitted to the editors by April 4, 2024. All submissions will receive an acknowledgement upon receipt, then a response by June 1, 2024.
Please include a 100-word bio with your proposal. Proposals should be sent to: StarTrekBk
If you have questions, please contact the editors at: StarTrekBk
Anticipated timeline:
- April 4, 2024: potential authors submit chapter proposals with bio
- June 1, 2024: editors respond to all submitted proposals
- October 31, 2024: Chapters submitted to editors
- February 1, 2025: Editors/peer reviewers return comments/revisions to authors
- April 4, 2025: Revisions due back to editors.
- July, 1, 2025: Finalization of text and submission to publisher
- November 1, 2025: Final publication of text.
(Final citation style will depend on the publisher.)