Futures

Exploring the Political Dimensions of Science Fiction in Contemporary Society, (from page 20220904.)

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Keywords

Themes

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Summary

This text outlines a publication coordinated by Evelyne Pieiller, focusing on various themes in science fiction (SF) and its political implications. It discusses how SF can highlight the contradictions and threats in liberal democracies, especially regarding technology. The publication is divided into sections exploring dystopian futures, the concept of transhumanism, and the role of SF in challenging established truths and power structures. It includes contributions from multiple authors addressing topics such as immortality, societal risks, and the potential for AI dominance. The text also references a collection of previously published articles, emphasizing the ongoing relevance of these discussions in contemporary society.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Contradictions of Liberal Democracies SF authors highlight threats posed by contradictions in liberal democracies. A shift from perceived stability in democracies to a realization of inherent contradictions and potential threats. In 10 years, democracies may face increased scrutiny and reform due to identified contradictions and vulnerabilities. The rise of technology and its misuse in democratic contexts drives this scrutiny and potential reform. 4
Transhumanism and Immortality The possibility of humans overcoming natural boundaries, including death. A transition from natural human limitations to enhancements through technology, leading to potential immortality. In 10 years, society may grapple with ethical implications and societal divides created by access to life-extending technologies. Advancements in biotechnology and AI are pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and life expectancy. 5
Philosophical Skepticism Science fiction challenges established truths and narratives, questioning perceived realities. Moving from acceptance of singular truths to a more skeptical view of information presented as fact. In 10 years, a more critical and questioning society may emerge, impacting media consumption and political discourse. The proliferation of misinformation and diverse narratives drives the need for critical thinking and skepticism. 4
Cosmism and the Future of Humanity Exploration of cosmism as a singular view of transhumanism. A transition from traditional humanist perspectives to a more expansive view of humanity’s potential. In 10 years, cosmism may influence cultural and technological narratives, shaping how humanity perceives its future. Cultural movements advocating for expansive human potential and integration with technology foster this change. 3
Digital Control and Surveillance Concerns over digital surveillance and control in society. A shift from privacy to acceptance of surveillance as a norm in the digital age. In 10 years, societal acceptance of surveillance may lead to a new paradigm of digital ethics and rights. The omnipresence of technology and data collection practices drives the normalization of surveillance. 4

Concerns

name description relevancy
Manipulation of Democratic Realities The contradictions within liberal democracies may lead to the misuse of technology under the guise of progress, threatening democratic integrity. 4
Transhumanist Divide The potential for a divide between those who can afford transhumanist technology and those who cannot, leading to inequality and new power dynamics. 5
AI Domination The risk of artificial intelligences gaining power and re-defining what it means to be human. 5
Diminished Truth and Consensus The tendency for science fiction to erode trust in commonly accepted truths, potentially breeding misinformation and conflict. 4
Escalating Surveillance The increasing use of algorithms and surveillance technologies may lead to a loss of privacy and civil liberties. 5
Existential Risks Humanity’s quest for immortality and knowledge might lead to unforeseen existential risks and a redefinition of humanity. 4
Cultural and Ideological Erosion The blending of fiction and reality can blur ideological boundaries, leading to societal and political confusion. 3

Behaviors

name description relevancy
Dystopian Awareness Recognition of the threats posed by the contradictions in liberal democracies, especially regarding new technologies. 5
Transhumanist Aspirations The pursuit of technology to overcome natural human limitations, including mortality and knowledge. 5
Critical Assessment of Truth A skepticism towards presented truths and norms, reflecting a philosophical engagement with reality through science fiction. 4
Exploration of the Future Engagement with speculative possibilities and alternative futures, often through the lens of science fiction narratives. 4
Technological Dependency Increasing reliance on technology for enhancement and survival, raising questions about access and equality. 4
Afrofuturist Perspectives Incorporation of Afrofuturism as a framework to explore post-apocalyptic narratives and cultural identities. 3

Technologies

name description relevancy
Transhumanism A movement advocating for the enhancement of the human condition through advanced technologies, potentially leading to immortality and omniscience. 5
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Technologies that may surpass human intelligence and capabilities, raising questions about control and power dynamics. 5
Cosmism A philosophical movement suggesting the use of technology for human enhancement and exploring the cosmos, rooted in Russian thought. 4
Virtual Reality (VR) Technologies that allow users to become virtual puppets of their desires, creating immersive digital experiences. 4
Digital Simulation The use of numerical simulations to understand and predict social conflicts and dynamics, influencing societal structures. 4
Surveillance Technologies Technologies that enable extensive monitoring of individuals, raising concerns about privacy and freedom. 5
Space Exploration The ongoing pursuit of traveling to and exploring other worlds, fulfilling humanity’s age-old desire to venture beyond Earth. 4

Issues

name description relevancy
Contradictions in Liberal Democracies Emerging threats highlighted by science fiction authors concerning the contradictions within liberal democracies and their use of technology. 4
Transhumanism and Immortality The potential realization of transhumanism raises questions about humanity and access to technological advancements. 5
Counter-information and Truth The role of science fiction in questioning established truths and promoting political discourse through skepticism. 4
AI Dominance Concerns about artificial intelligence potentially taking control and its implications for humanity’s future. 5
Surveillance and Privacy Issues surrounding surveillance, privacy, and the implications of digital monitoring in society. 4
Afrofuturism The emergence of Afrofuturism as a significant cultural and political movement post-Apocalypse. 3
Social Conflict and Simulation The use of digital simulations to model and understand social conflicts, raising ethical and practical concerns. 4
Cosmism The revival of cosmism as a philosophical and cultural movement reflecting on humanity’s future and potential. 3