Cyberpunk

Guide Note

Cyberpunk is a sub-genre of science fiction that deals with the advancement of technology is predominantly negative—though not necessarily pessimistic—about its impact upon human society. The style began as a literary style after author Bruce Bethke published his 1983 short story entitled Cyberpunk but eventually spread out to film, television, and music.

Fast Facts

1. Term first coined by Bruce Bethke] in 1983
2. Derived from the terms "cybernetics" and punk
3. Best known for its usage in William Gibson's novels
4. Stories generally include themes of dystopia, government or business corruption and intricate technology including cybernetics
5. Notable

1. Negative impact of technology on humanity
2. Blurred divisions between man and machine
3. Rigidly divided social order
4. Corporate control over society
5. Emphasis on subcultures and underground movements
6. Widespread access to information (e.g. hacking)
7. Cluttered, super-urban settings with a strong dystopian feel

Bruce Bethke's 1983 short story, Cyberpunk was the literal origin of the term, and contained many of the themes that would define the sub-genre. But cyberpunk was also popularized by a number of other science fiction authors such as William Gibson, whose 1984 novel Neuromancer also typifies the style. Cyberpunk also draws from other past artistic styles as well, such as "hard-boiled" detective fiction and film noir.