Humans turn machines in the era of cybernetics a critical study of Philip K. Dick and Madeline Ashby.

Abstract

The thesis examines the complex interplay between humans and machines, utilising the speculative writings of authors Philip K. Dick and Madeline Ashby to assess the consequences of cybernetic integration on human identity and society. The objective is to analyse the ethical, social, and philosophical implications that arise when the boundaries between humans and machines become indistinct. In order to achieve this, theoretical frameworks used are Jean Baudrillard's theory of Simulation and Simulacrum, Jeffrey Jerome Cohen’s theory of Monsters and Karl Marx's theory of human-machine interaction and the alienation of the individual. Dick and Ashby offer cautionary anecdotes regarding the potential hazards and benefits of integrating humans with machines. Their work explores the potential of a future in which humans and robots no longer exist as separate beings, but instead coexist in a hybrid form. By portraying androids and autonomous, self-aware machines, both of their works examine fundamental enquiries of consciousness, identity, and autonomy. The thesis emphasises the importance of thoroughly evaluating the possible outcomes of technological progress, especially as society progresses towards a future where the distinction between humans and machines may become indistinguishable.