'Do we need science fiction?'

'So, in 2004, do we need science fiction? Some features of the world of 2004 resemble science fictional dreams of the past; some science fiction scenarios are obsolete. But history hasn't ended yet. In the coming few years climate adjustments alone will ensure that whatever we run out of - oil, fresh water, clean air - change itself will not be in short supply. There will be no shortage of raw material for science fiction literature, whatever becomes of genre categories in bookshops.'

Stephen Baxter in The Times