Stranger in a Strange Land

Heinlein makes little distinction between politics, religion, and a carnival sideshow. How does the novel draw parallels between these seemingly disparate social phenomena?

How does Heinlein’s portrayal of a global government—the Federation—reflect historical fears of the time? What are some specific examples in the narrative of an overreaching government?

How does the novel understand and depict gender roles? How does its treatment of women align (or fail to align) with its interest in universal individual freedom?

Harshaw argues that Smith’s innocence masks a deep wisdom: He “has me halfway sold that he knows what he’s talking about” (99). What is the connection between wisdom and innocence?

In what ways does Fosterism differ from other mainstream religions? Does its embrace of cynicism amount to a form of honesty?

Smith, an innocent nestling early in the narrative, suddenly matures overnight, and sex is the catalyst. What changes does Harshaw notice in Smith after his first sexual experience? What is the importance of sex in Smith’s maturation?

How does Smith’s visit to the zoo serve as a catalyst for his evolving understanding of humanity? How does he apply the lessons he learns from this experience?

How does the novel explore the tension between individual freedom and collective responsibility? How do its characters (especially Harshaw and Smith) compromise their belief in absolute individual freedom in order to respect the rights of others?