Many years ago I read a summarizing statement about the underlying purpose of the science fiction genre: Its intention is not to predict, but to warn.*
This blogger (link >>> ) takes a look at ten misconceptions that are commonly associated with SF by poorly informed journalists and critics and why they are wrong. She also says a few pertinent words about what our beloved genre actually has to say about the chaotic era we currently live in.
*Unfortunately I do not remember what writer made that accurate observation.