Date of Award

2021

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelors

Department

Humanities

First Advisor

Lopez Zafra, Manuel

Area of Concentration

Religion

Abstract

This thesis examines how the science fiction show T he Orville showcases the dangers of religion in contemporary society. Created by Seth MacFarlane, T he Orville is a science fiction television show which is often thought of as a parody of S tar Trek which is better than the original. The Star Trek franchise has featured many episodes which cast religion in a negative light; T he Orville follows in S tar Trek’ s footsteps. The anti-religious sentiments in T he Orville are even more evident since Seth MacFarlane himself is a devout atheist who disparaged religion in his earlier work. This thesis examines seven episodes of The Orville and two tie-in comic books, all of which discuss negative aspects of religion. Each is described in detail, as T he Orville is not as pervasive in the public consciousness as is Star Trek. Each episode and comic is then analyzed in light of a specific religious theme and compared with a Star Trek episode which explores the same theme. Next, real world examples of problems with this religious theme are discussed. Seth MacFarlane uses The Orville to make excellent points about religious problems that face the world today. As The Orville is a show that many fans of Star Trek watch, these views can impact a great many people, who may proceed to influence others to adopt those same beliefs.

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