Science Fiction’s Genre Essay Example
Science Fiction’s Genre Essay Example

Science Fiction’s Genre Essay Example

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The unique features of the science fiction genre enable it to delve into the potential risks posed by developments in science and technology. This can be seen in the satirical piece "Brave New World" written by Aldous Huxley, Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey, and I Robot, directed by Alex Proyas. These various works all belong to the science fiction genre, hence they display corresponding themes and messages. Additionally, they all fall under the sub-genre of dystopia. Originating from fears of technological dangers, these texts highlight issues related to social stratification and human imperfections.

Undoubtedly, the concept of social hierarchy is strongly illustrated in these materials. Initially, I Robot illustrates the role of robots as subordinates to humans, thereby introducing the theme of servitude. Surprisingly, apart from Detective Spooner, humans appe

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ared to have more confidence in the robots than they did in each other, signifying a risky reliance on this potent technology. Case in point is an initial scene featuring an asthmatic lady. In this scene, Spooner inadvertently aims at a fleeing robot mistakenly thinking it was absconding with a handbag when in reality, it was fetching the lady's inhaler.

The instance highlighted reflects the pervasive mistrust amongst mankind and their significant reliance on technology, which could prove to be perilous on its failure. For instance, we see a power shift when the robots, who are regarded as mere tools by humans, start to overthrow those in control, including the influential wealthy CEO. This upper echelon often seems to be favored, as illustrated in the initial scene featuring a robot. Here Spooner rebuffs the robot by saying “get the hell out of my face canner,” to which

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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.

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