Textualizing Cyber-Consciousness and AI-Integration in Sci-Fi Fiction
Sobia Jamal, Kalsoom Khan, Mumtaz Ahmed, Ankush Mahajan
Advances in Computational Intelligence and Robotics May 8, 2026 DOI: 10.4018/979-8-2600-1458-5.ch005 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that while biotechnology enables "biotechnological fantasies" of a mind existing outside the body, such a digital existence may prove damaging to human nature. Drawing on Haney's framework and the series Upload, the chapter challenges the Cartesian "I think, therefore I am" and concludes that developing a natural consciousness is preferable to a purely digital existence void of soul. |
Abstract
The chapter analyses cyber consciousness in the context of post-humanism and the role of artificial intelligence in developing a post-human digital consciousness. It focuses on the popular Amazon Prime series Upload (2020-2025). The paper argues that, even though technology, particularly biotechnology, offers new human experiences, including “biotechnological fantasies” of a mind existing outside the body. However, such existence may prove damaging to human nature itself. It draws on the theoretical underpinnings of William Haney's book Cyberculture, Cyborgs, and Science Fiction: Consciousness and the Posthuman (2006). This chapter challenges the traditional Cartesian view of consciousness, “I think, therefore I am.” It also examines the cybercultural and cyber-social implications of digitising the mind and the act of creation. The conclusion aligns with Haney's belief that it is better to develop a natural consciousness rather than to pursue a purely digital existence void of soul.