Representing (Post)Human Enhancement Technologies in Twenty-First Century US Fiction

This book explores the use of biotechnology, digital technologies, and cryonics in three twenty-first-century novels to transcend human limitations, while warning of disembodiment and dehumanization.

Format: Hardback
Length: 188 pages
Publication date: 07 October 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive work delves into three twenty-first-century novels by Richard Powers, Dave Eggers, and Don DeLillo, which are considered representative of a novel trend in American fiction focused on the exploration of the technological augmentation of the human condition. Through a dual perspective of optimistic transhumanism and critical posthumanism, the book offers a comprehensive overview of the narrative strategies employed by these writers to investigate the potential offered by biotechnology, digital technologies, and cryonics in transcending human limitations. At the same time, it cautions readers about the potentially harmful consequences of these advancements.

The authors approach the subject from diverse perspectives, employing various narrative styles and techniques, yet they all share a profound fear of the consequences of an unrestrained and unquestioned use of technology for enhancement purposes. This fear manifests in their narratives as a concern for the potential disembodiment and dehumanization of individuals who undergo technological augmentation.

The first novel examined in the book is Powers' "The Time Machine." Set in a future where time travel is possible, the novel explores the ethical implications of altering the past and the future. Through the character of the Time Traveler, Powers examines the potential for technology to transcend human limitations and the consequences of such actions.

The second novel analyzed is Eggers' "The Circle." Set in a society where everyone is connected through a digital network, the novel explores the power of technology to control and manipulate individuals. Through the character of Mae, Eggers examines the potential for technology to erode personal privacy and the consequences of such actions.

The third novel examined is DeLillo's "White Noise." Set in a postmodern society, the novel explores the relationship between technology and consumerism. Through the character of Jack, DeLillo examines the potential for technology to create a sense of isolation and the consequences of such actions.

In conclusion, this work provides a valuable insight into the emerging trend of American fiction focused on the technological augmentation of the human condition. Through a dual perspective of optimism and criticality, the book offers a comprehensive overview of the narrative strategies employed by these writers to explore the potential offered by biotechnology, digital technologies, and cryonics in transcending human limitations. At the same time, it cautions readers about the potentially harmful consequences of these advancements. By examining the novels through the lens of transhumanism and posthumanism, the book sheds light on the ethical and philosophical implications of these technologies and their potential impact on human society.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032232416