Science Fiction’s Genre Essay Example

the robot courteously responds with “have a nice day sir”.

The narrative is akin to both Brave New World and 2001, where the ruling race is afforded power. In 2001, despite considering HAL an equal and a friend - a situation reminiscent of Sonny’s malfunction in I Robot - they also opt to incapacitate him. This maltreatment of the lower class, however, has its limits and signifies a looming rebellion or uprising. This recurring theme in science fiction - the oppressed eventually rising against their oppressors - is clearly portrayed in the NS 5s' rebellion in I Robot.

The inclusion of the marching sound adds emphasis to the uprising, demonstrating their unity and the strength it brings. The movie hints at a forthcoming revolution right from the start. It commences in water, an element depicted as both enigmatic and perilous, presenting the three laws of robotics. However, these laws quickly disintegrate into minor bubbles, signaling an upcoming shift in circumstances related to these laws. Imagine if these laws were portrayed through stone sculptures, it would yield a vastly distinct outcome.

The scene that illustrates Spooning's initial entrance into the building also highlights a towering robot statue through a low camera shot, reinforcing the imminent rise of power among robots. This is reminiscent of the foreshadowing employed in 2001. In a chess match against Dave, HAL clearly demonstrates his superior mental capabilities and ability to think strategically. This moment is an omen of future developments in the film. Similarly, the concept of rebellion is depicted in Brave New World by means of the “savages”, where their apparent lack of authority promptly undergoes a change.

The risks associated with novel

technologies or scientific discoveries can trigger revolutionary shifts, thereby altering power dynamics. All three texts reflect on the challenges and imperfections inherent in humanity. Often, it is our own creations that expose our flaws, leading to an environment of dystopia and peril. This theme is vividly illustrated in scenes from I Robot and 2001 through visual techniques, while Brave New World leverages its envisage of a modern society to highlight the extremes of human nature.

Pertaining to the movies, human imperfections generate challenges for all disputes. For example, Sonny's human deficit raises consciousness and inquiries about the functionality of the three laws of robotics. When Sonny queries Spooner, "what am I?!" he is doubting his being, implying a near apprehensive tone in his speech. Such demeanor is unquestionably a human characteristic that robots are not intended to possess. This trait is even more highlighted when contrasted with the monotone voices of nearby NS-5s that ask "Would you like help".

Nevertheless, the perception robots have towards humans also conveys the notion that robots are more mindful of human issues than humans themselves. When VIKI points out several self-inflicted human concerns, like environmental degradation, it evidently highlights how humans are unknowingly causing harm to themselves and in order to sustain human evolution, certain sacrifices have to be made. Interestingly, I Robot shares numerous analogous themes and messages with 2001. However, it's clear that VIKI's character is greatly inspired by 2001's HAL - seemingly flawless and initially supportive, yet later reveals harmful intentions.

Both of them exhibit human characteristics that ultimately contribute to their demise. This decline demonstrates how mankind is often the source of troubles and damages. With the progression

of science and technology, these concerns can be heightened within the realm of science fiction. Interestingly, Susan Calvin, who is believed to "humanize the robots," displays little to no emotion at the onset, possessing a monotone voice much like HAL's. She remains unamused by Spooner's humor and does not exhibit any visible emotional response towards him.

This depiction further reveals how humans, in some facets, are arguably more unsympathetic than the robots they manufacture by displaying a lack of sensitivity towards typically sorrowful situations. This segment is key as it highlights an additional imperfection inherent in mankind. The distinction between humans and their robot counterparts is clear because of these qualities. A shift in dominance is noticed once these features start manifesting in the robots, especially in the advanced ones such as NS-5s, HAL and VIKI. They begin to demonstrate independence and self-awareness, elements that were initially seen as threatening.