On January 2, the world celebrates the International Day of Science Fiction, the Day of Motivation and Inspiration, the Day of the Buffet and the Day of the Prisoner.
International Science Fiction Day
This date was chosen in honor of the birthday of Isaac Asimov, an outstanding writer who changed the way millions of people thought about the future. His works, such as the “Foundation” cycle and the Three Laws of Robotics, have become symbols of the genre and inspiration for many scientists and engineers.
Science fiction is not only entertainment, but also a powerful tool for understanding possible scenarios of human development. This genre is often ahead of its time: the technologies described in the works, such as video communication, artificial intelligence or space travel, are gradually becoming a reality.
Interesting facts
The term “science fiction” first appeared in 1851. It was used by William Wilson to describe literature that combines scientific concepts with fictional stories. However, the term gained popularity thanks to Hugo Gernsback, founder of the first science fiction magazine Amazing Stories in 1926.
Science fiction often predicts technological advances. For example, Jules Verne in the 19th century wrote about submarines, space travel and trips to the moon, and Arthur C. Clarke predicted satellite communication.
The first science fiction novel. Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein (1818) is considered to be the first novel that can be classified as science fiction. It explores the idea of creating life through science, which was extremely innovative for the time.
Isaac Asimov was born on January 2, 1920. He wrote more than 500 books and became one of the most famous authors of science fiction, as well as a popularizer of science. In the books of Asimov and other science fiction writers, such ideas as intelligent robots, the colonization of other planets and even the impact of artificial intelligence on society are described, which are now actively discussed in scientific circles. In his works, Asimov created the Three Laws of Robotics, which are used as a basic ethic in discussions about artificial intelligence.
Many scientists and developers of modern technologies call the works of science fiction as a source of their inspiration. For example, the concept of the “Three Laws of Robotics” became the basis for ethical discussions about the use of robots.
One of the first films in the genre of science fiction is “A Trip to the Moon” (1902) by Georges Méliès, which impressed the audience with its visual effects.
Many famous scientists and technology developers, such as Carl Sagan or Elon Musk, were inspired by works of science fiction. For example, startups related to the colonization of Mars often refer to ideas expressed in the writings of Kim Stanley Robinson.
Although the genre has long been considered “male”, women have contributed greatly to its development. In addition to Mary Shelley, it is worth mentioning Ursula Le Guin, who explored social and psychological aspects through the prism of science fiction.
Many words and concepts created in science fiction have become part of our daily lives. For example, the term “cyberspace” was invented by William Gibson in the novel “Neuromancer”.
Science fiction often serves as a mirror for contemporary societal issues, such as the environment, gender equality, or the threat of global catastrophes.
Several astronauts have admitted that they were inspired in their careers by works such as Star Trek or 2001 A Space Odyssey.
Day of motivation and inspiration
This event, which aims to inspire people to move towards their goals and dreams. This day reminds us that the new year is a great time to start new projects, strengthen faith in one’s own strength and find new sources of inspiration.
This day was first introduced in the USA after the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Its initiator was Kevin Lobel, who wanted to inspire people to make positive changes and actively work on themselves. In 2002, the US Congress officially declared January 2 as the National Day of Motivation and Inspiration.
This day encourages everyone to think about what you really want to achieve in life and how you can take the first steps towards this goal. He emphasizes the importance of self-improvement and self-confidence.
Often, to move forward, it is enough to find motivation in everyday life: in kind words, support of loved ones, or success of others.
Buffet day
This is a holiday that falls on the beginning of the year and reminds us of the joy of a joint feast. A buffet is an ideal form of celebration that allows you to gather friends and family around one table, enjoying a variety of dishes.
Buffets have become popular due to their convenience and versatility. In the “buffet” format, each guest can choose a dish to their taste and eat at their own pace, which creates a relaxed atmosphere. This style of feasting originated in Sweden as early as the 16th century, and later spread throughout the world.
Interesting facts
The word “fourchette” comes from the French language (“fourchette”), which means “fork”. This emphasizes a meal format that does not involve the use of a knife.
Buffets usually offer dishes from different cuisines of the world, which allows you to try something new and unusual.
This feast format symbolizes community and friendship, as all guests have access to the same dishes.
Day of the prisoner
This day is designed to draw attention to the situation of people in prison, their rights, conditions of detention and opportunities for rehabilitation.
The idea of celebrating such a day is for society to remember that even those who have made mistakes are still human beings who deserve a chance to make amends. This day emphasizes the importance of humane treatment, equal access to justice and providing opportunities for resocialization.
International organizations remind that the rights of prisoners must be protected, regardless of their status.
Much attention is paid to programs that help people integrate into society after release, including training, psychological support and employment.
This day emphasizes the need to ensure proper conditions in prisons that do not degrade human dignity.
Historical events on this day
1649 — the solemn entry of Hetman of Ukraine Bohdan Khmelnytskyi into Kyiv took place. It was the symbolic beginning of a new stage in the history of the Ukrainian people, connected with the struggle for independence led by Khmelnytskyi.
1757 — Great Britain captured Calcutta (India). This was an important step in the colonial expansion of the British Empire in India.
1776 — Archduchess Maria Theresa abolished torture in Austria. It was one of the progressive decisions of the Enlightenment era, which influenced the development of human rights in Europe.
1788 — Georgia became the 4th state of the United States of America, strengthening the formation of a new federation that would soon become one of the most powerful countries in the world.
1796 — in Russia, Article 15 of the Charter of Complaints, which prohibited corporal punishment for nobles, was abolished. This decision was a step back in the issue of social equality.
1839 — Louis Daguerre took the first photograph of the Moon. This event became an important stage in the development of astronomical photography.
1936 — scientists Volodymyr Zvorykin and George Morton demonstrated an electronic tube sensitive to ultraviolet and infrared rays. This discovery became the basis for the development of television.
1942 — Japanese troops occupied Manila (Philippines) during World War II. This event was of strategic importance in the Pacific theater of war.
1944 — for the first time in the history of hostilities, helicopters were used. Three machines designed by Igor Sikorsky accompanied the British Atlantic convoy.
1959 — The USSR carried out the first launch of the Luna-1 rocket to the Moon. Although the mission was unsuccessful, it was an important step in the space race.
1963 — during the Vietnam War, the Viet Cong won its first major victory over South Vietnam and the United States in the Battle of Apbak.
1967 — during the “Bolo” operation, American F-4 pilots shot down half of the MiG-21s of the North Vietnamese Air Force, which became an important event in the Vietnam War.
1992 — the powers of the People’s Deputies of the USSR officially ended, which marked the end of the history of this state.
1999 — a powerful snowstorm in the US Midwest caused significant destruction. In Chicago, 487 mm of snow fell at a temperature of -25 °C, which led to the death of 68 people.
