Futures

George R.R. Martin Publishes Peer-Reviewed Paper on Wild Cards Virus Dynamics, (from page 20250209.)

External link

Keywords

Themes

Other

Summary

George R.R. Martin, known for his A Song of Ice and Fire series, has co-authored a peer-reviewed physics paper published in the American Journal of Physics. The paper presents a formula for the dynamics of a fictional virus central to the Wild Cards series, a shared universe edited by Martin and Melinda M. Snodgrass. Wild Cards originated from a Superworld RPG campaign in the 1980s and features contributions from around 44 authors. The series depicts an alternate history where an airborne virus released over New York City in 1946 rewrites DNA, resulting in significant mutations: 90% of the infected die, 9% become Jokers with adverse effects, and 1% gain superpowers, referred to as Aces, with some having trivial abilities known as deuces.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Literary Contributions to Science George R.R. Martin co-authors a peer-reviewed physics paper based on a fictional virus. The shift from fiction to scientific contribution by authors in popular culture. Authors may increasingly engage in scientific discourse, blending fiction with research. The growing intersection of literature and science, encouraging authors to explore scientific concepts. 4
Shared Universe Concept Wild Cards series showcases a collaborative writing effort among multiple authors. From individual authorship to collaborative storytelling in literature. More authors may create shared universes, enhancing cross-genre exploration and creativity. The popularity of collaborative projects in media, fostering creativity and diverse narratives. 5
Alternate History as a Genre The Wild Cards series presents an alternate history of the US post-World War II. Increased interest in alternate history narratives reflecting current societal issues. Alternate history may become a prominent genre, reflecting contemporary themes through historical lenses. Societal desire to re-examine and reinterpret history in light of modern challenges. 4
Impact of Fiction on Scientific Inquiry A fictional virus inspires a scientific analysis in a peer-reviewed context. From purely fictional narratives to inspiring real scientific exploration. Fictional concepts may increasingly influence scientific research and inquiry methods. The recognition of fiction’s potential to inspire real-world scientific exploration and creativity. 3
Integration of Superhero Narratives Superhero narratives are evolving, incorporating elements of science and history. The evolution of superhero stories to include deeper scientific and historical contexts. Superhero narratives may increasingly reflect complex societal and scientific themes, enriching storytelling. The desire for richer, more meaningful narratives in popular culture, combining genres. 4

Concerns

name description relevancy
Biological Warfare Risks The concept of an airborne alien virus that rewrites DNA raises concerns about biological warfare and the manipulation of viruses for harmful purposes. 5
Viral Mutation and Pandemic Potential The spread of a virus that mutates individuals, leading to high mortality and unpredictable genetic outcomes, highlights risks of future pandemics. 5
Ethical Implications of Genetic Modification The idea of a virus designed to rewrite DNA poses ethical questions regarding genetic modification and the potential for unforeseen consequences. 4
Social Consequences of Viral Infections With a large percentage of the population affected by a harmful virus, including societal stratification between ‘Aces’, ‘Jokers’, and ordinary people, social unrest could emerge. 4
Narrative Influence on Public Perception The portrayal of viruses and genetic effects in popular media can influence public perception and reactions to real-world health crises. 3

Behaviors

name description relevancy
Interdisciplinary Collaboration Authors from different fields, like literature and physics, collaborating on projects that blend fiction with scientific concepts. 4
Shared Universe Creation Writers contributing to a single narrative universe, allowing for diverse storytelling and character development across multiple authors. 5
Alternate History Exploration Utilizing fictional events to explore societal implications and human behavior in a reimagined historical context. 4
Fan Engagement Through Diverse Mediums Authors engaging with fans by expanding their works into different formats, such as peer-reviewed papers and RPGs. 3
Exploration of Mutation and Identity Themes of mutation and identity explored through the lens of a virus, reflecting contemporary concerns about health and genetics. 5

Technologies

description relevancy src
An airborne alien virus designed to rewrite DNA, affecting individuals differently and leading to superpowers in a small percentage of the infected. 4 d406f4ef5e29880ed750eb05376ed325
A hypothetical technology derived from the Wild Card virus that suggests the potential for rewriting DNA and altering genetic traits. 5 d406f4ef5e29880ed750eb05376ed325

Issues

name description relevancy
Impact of Fiction on Scientific Discourse The collaboration of a fiction author with scientific research raises questions about the intersection of literature and science. 4
Cultural Reflection of Superhero Narratives The portrayal of the Wild Card virus and its implications reflect societal attitudes towards superpowers and their consequences. 3
Alternate Histories in Literature The use of alternate history in storytelling can influence perceptions of real historical events and their outcomes. 4
Ethical Implications of Genetic Modification The concept of a virus rewriting DNA in the narrative prompts discussions on the ethics of genetic modification in reality. 5
Shared Universe Storytelling The evolution of shared universe narratives indicates a growing trend in collaborative storytelling across multiple authors and genres. 3