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Title Futurism, Technology, and Ethics: A Posthumanist Reading of Daniel H. Wilson’s Selected Fiction

Author(s) SHARJEEL AHMAD

Abstract This research examines Daniel H. Wilson’s cyberpunk and techno-thriller (a genre of fiction that combines elements of science and technology with thriller elements) novels, Robopocalypse (2011) and Amped (2012). For this study, I have drawn upon theoretical positions expounded in Rosi Braidotti’s book The Posthuman (2013) and focused on her two specific concepts of ‘posthuman subjectivity’ and ‘post-anthropocentrism’1 along with the ethical dimensions related to technology. Francis Fukuyama’s (2002) concept of ‘ethics of technology’ and Gerd Leonhard’s (2015) concept of ‘futurism’ have been used as a supporting theoretical props. Moreover, I have invoked philosophical posthumanism for this study in order to support my reading of contemporary American Sci-Fi that has become a swelling interest for the people around the globe. Humans are using AI, Robotics, and other digital technologies for the enhancement of their lifestyles and constantly reflecting a thorough control over it. Cyberpunk fiction advocates a dystopian warning against the human dominance on the planet earth because Artificial Intelligence and advance technologies have the potential that will possibly jeopardize anthropocentrism. Humans will frustratingly struggle for retaining the lost status of humanness in the midst of technology revolution. This study attempts to highlight the dangers that technology poses to the survival of humans and the flourishing of humanity. It also explores the perils of technology and the interdependence between humans and technology that is going to result in ethical and social crises. This research seeks to explore the ethical implications of posthumanist futurism as it pertains to the advancement of technology. In particular, it looks at the ethical implications of the increased reliance on technology in our lives, the potential implications of posthumanism, and the role of ethics in this changing landscape. I have employed Textual Analysis as my research method. This investigation is likely to productively intervene in the production of contemporary knowledge in the area of Posthumanism.

Type Thesis/Dissertation MS

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Department English

Language English

Publication Date 2022-10-28

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