Robert Anson Heinlein was an American science fiction author, aeronautical engineer, and naval officer. Sometimes called the "dean of science fiction writers", he was among the first to emphasise scientific accuracy in his fiction, and was thus a pioneer of the sub-genre of hard science fiction. His published works, both fiction and non-fiction, express admiration for competence and emphasise the value of critical thinking. His plots often posed provocative situations which challenged conventional social mores. His work continues to have an influence on the science-fiction genre, and on modern culture more generally.
