How do you feel about the technology in Firefly?
The most modern armies of today are using the same TYPE of technology that won the American Revolution. Guns. We have improved the delivery mechanism, but George Washington would understand the basic idea behind the M16. It is perfectly reasonable to believe that 500 years from now people will STILL be using slug throwers to kill each other. The advanced planets will probably have improved methods of slinging lead, but it will still be a slug thrower.
After all, to defend against a laser beam, you just add a coat of shiny paint. Particle beams have a difficult time getting through the atmosphere without scattering in every direction. Technological advances may very well overcome these difficulties, but slug throwers will probably still have advantages. Witness Jaynes frustration with the “fancy” gun he steals in “Ariel”. Stops people just fine, but wouldn’t blow away a lock. Slug throwers work. Inertia hurts.
Aliens (one of the BEST SciFi movies ever made) certainly acknowledged this. What did the soldiers use to fight the aliens? Guns, grenade launchers, and flame throwers. Very ADVANCED versions, but same idea.
And for cultures on the edge of civilization, it’s SO much easier to build (and maintain) an old fashioned six shooter than some fancy schmancy gun. And a slug from a six shooter kills just fine.
Far from being offended by the technology in Firefly, I applaud it for breaking out of SciFi stereotypes and creating a believable future.
Donald Hines