>> assume that in described world, a selected type of "magic" is possible (handwaving it into a scientificly-sound concept for the sake of the reading experience) and extrapolate the consequences. What can be done with it, and - more important - how will people behave, how will it transform the society.
That's my definition of good science fiction. Asimov was the master, but I can't find many others like him. I liked OSC too. Do you have any recommendations?
I liked Vernor Vinge's "A Fire Upon a Deep". This book is a goldmine of interesting concepts about alien species and their civilisations, completely different from "standard TV aliens". Also "The Trigger" by Arthur C. Clarke - it's a book about how an accidental discovery causes technological change, which transforms life of societies around the world. One of the best books I've ever read.
That's my definition of good science fiction. Asimov was the master, but I can't find many others like him. I liked OSC too. Do you have any recommendations?