The Fish of LiJiang – ‘Natural’ Environment
In the short story “The Fish of Lijiang” unknowing participants of a study visit Lijiang to heal from the effects of the study. Lijiang is a haven where almost everything is fake. The “‘Natural Environment” is an artifact of Lijiang that provides a relaxing, interactive experience in all aspects. It is synced so well with the environment that the users don’t even know they’re using it. The features of this artifact include holographic images and ambient noises that mirror the natural environment. Most of all, it is interactive because of its ability to react to the needs of the individual within it. The images and sounds that it portrays are specific to what calms the mind of its user, taking into account past experiences and personal preferences. Unfortunately, this artificiality can be philosophically problematic because it distances the user from a truly natural environment and allows an escape that can be addictive. Therefore, it must be used in a regulated scenario and only for the patients that require treatment.
Newton’s Sleep – Matchmaking Calculator
Spes, the setting of “Newton’s Sleep”, is founded on the principle that reason governs everything. This includes relationship matchmaking. The artifact from Spes is a calculator used to find proper matches. The people of Spes are periodically required to input information about themselves and will be assigned reasonable matches accordingly. While this matchmaking technology may not match with today’s standards on love and relationships, a society centered around reason cannot allow the subjectivity of emotions take precedent. This allows for enhanced compatibility and a new sort of development in society. The presence of specific genetic traits can be amplified by this matchmaking tool.
The Winter Market – Psychological Communication
In the setting of “The Winter Market”, a futuristic Vancouver, a cyborg woman uses this artifact to communicate in a more intimate way, by sharing her mind. This communication tactic could potentially become dangerously intrusive if abused. The mind seems to be the only thing that can be entirely kept private in our society. However, this artifact’s ability to share the beauty and horrors of the mind can also be quite useful. It has the potential to tear down language barriers and other communication difficulties allowing for a deeper connection between people. It also would be revolutionary for the future of art and technology as people would be able to share ideas in their truest form.
Leave a Reply