What came first science fiction or science?

This is a tricky question, as it depends on how you define "science fiction" and "science."

Here's a breakdown:

* Science: Science as a systematic process of observation, experimentation, and knowledge building has been around for centuries, possibly even millennia. Ancient civilizations like the Greeks and Egyptians had sophisticated understandings of astronomy, mathematics, and engineering.

* Science Fiction: The concept of "science fiction" as a genre that explores the possibilities of science and technology is a relatively modern one. While there were earlier works that hinted at the genre, it truly emerged in the 19th century with authors like Mary Shelley ("Frankenstein") and Jules Verne ("Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea").

So, the answer:

* Science came first. It is the foundation upon which science fiction is built. Without the scientific advancements of the past, there would be no fictional concepts of space travel, robots, or advanced technology to draw upon.

However:

* Science fiction has also influenced science. The imaginative ideas in science fiction often inspire real-world scientific advancements. For example, the concept of a "laser sword" from Star Wars helped inspire the development of lasers for practical applications.

In conclusion: Science came first, but the relationship between science and science fiction is symbiotic. They both influence and inspire each other.