On the performativity of science-fiction. A semiotic approach to the development of virtual worlds

Jean Behue
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Jean Behue: CRG - Centre de recherche en gestion - X - École polytechnique - IP Paris - Institut Polytechnique de Paris - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique

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Abstract: Science-fiction is of ever-increasing interest for science and technology studies. Far from being pure fantasy, it is widely acknowledged that the tales of science-fiction can pave the way for the future. But few studies have analyzed how and to what extent science-fiction books can influence the development of technologies, and more generally, the "real world". Based on a case-study, this paper analyzes how and to what extent so-called "cyberpunk" texts have influenced the development of a virtual world. Capitalizing on a semiotic approach, this paper suggests considering the performativity of science-fiction through the perspective of an encounter between the author's project, and the reader's one. It also highlights the role of interpretation in the process of materializing an imaginary project. The paper shows how important are the technical competencies of the reader, for interpreting the technical challenges raised by the imaginary object, and for the selection of the appropriate solutions. In this way, this paper considers the power of sci-fi words as a possibility, whose achievement is always potential and partial.

Keywords: science-fiction; science and technology studies; cyberpunk” texts; technical challenges; technical challenges. (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2008-04-05
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Published in Science and Technology in Society, American Association for the Advancement of Science Headquarters, Apr 2008, New York City, United States

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:hal:journl:hal-00404377

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