Dream Lovers: The Gamification of Relationships

Digital technologies are manipulating and controlling our desires, transforming the way we relate to everything from lovers and friends to food and politicians. The love industries are at the heart of the future smart city and the social fabric of everyday life.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 20 May 2022
Publisher: Pluto Press

We are currently experiencing a significant and transformative shift in the way we experience desire as human beings. This shift is characterized as a "desire revolution" and represents a fundamental and political transformation of our desires. It is important to note that this transformation is not limited to the introduction of new technologies but is also shaped by the inherent political biases associated with these technologies. As we navigate this evolving landscape, it is crucial to recognize that the primary driver of this transformation is the manipulation and control of desire itself. Our impulses, drives, and urges are being gamified to align with specific economic and political agendas, altering the way we interact with a wide range of aspects of our lives, including relationships with partners, friends, food, and political figures.

Digital technologies are playing a pivotal role in reshaping the very fabric of desire. They are enabling new forms of interaction and engagement, such as sexbots, smart condoms, fitness trackers, virtual reality simulators, and artificial intelligence-powered dating algorithms. These technologies are not only revolutionizing the way we experience pleasure and intimacy but also shaping the future of work and capitalism. In this book, we will explore these emerging technologies in detail and consider their implications for the future of love, desire, work, and capitalism.

One of the most significant implications of these technologies is the transformation of the love industries. The love industries, which include industries such as pornography, dating apps, and sex toys, are at the forefront of the development of these new technologies. They are using cutting-edge technologies to enhance user experiences, increase engagement, and drive revenue growth. For example, sexbots are being developed to provide personalized and realistic sexual experiences, while smart condoms are equipped with sensors that can track sexual activity and provide real-time feedback. These technologies are not only changing the way we engage with sex but also challenging traditional gender roles and stereotypes.

Another area of impact is the workplace. With the rise of automation and artificial intelligence, many traditional jobs are being replaced by machines. This has led to concerns about job insecurity and the future of work. However, it is also opening up new opportunities for innovation and creativity. For example, virtual reality simulators are being used to train employees in high-risk environments, while AI-powered dating algorithms are being used to match job seekers with potential employers. These technologies are not only improving productivity but also creating new job opportunities and disrupting traditional industries.

In conclusion, we are living in a time of unprecedented technological advancement and transformation. The manipulation and control of desire are at the heart of this transformation, as digital technologies are reshaping the way we experience love, desire, work, and capitalism. While these technologies offer many benefits, it is important to be aware of their potential implications and to work towards creating a future that is equitable, sustainable, and inclusive for all.

Weight: 168g
Dimension: 135 x 213 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780745344874