The document discusses the cyberpunk science fiction novel "Neuromancer" by William Gibson. It analyzes how the novel depicts a near-future dystopian society in a way that encourages critical self-reflection in readers. Specifically, it examines the concepts of entelechy, dialectical tension, and comic correctness in how the novel portrays the relationship between humans and advancing technology.

1. “The Dream of a Cyberpunk Future?
Entelechy, Dialectical Tension, and the
Comic Corrective in William Gibson’s
Neuromancer”
Valerie R. Renegar & George N. Dionisopoulos

2.  Entelechy –
a vital force that directs an organism
toward self-fulfilment. (or perfection in
this case)
 Dialectical –
arriving at the truth by the exchange of
logical arguments.

3.  Marked by its portrayal of
the near future of our
society rather than a world
hundreds of years from
now or on some distant
planet.
 The audience participates
in the imagination of a
world that is dark, cold,
and filled with technological
tools.
Cyberpunk

4.  Neuromancer is one of the earliest works
of Cyberpunk science fiction.
 The book is over 20 years old.
 Many of Gibson’s futuristic visions have
become reality.
 The reading argues that it encourages
critical self-reflection and social critique.
Neuromancer

5.  Theory of ‘comic correctness’.
 A comic posture creates a sense of ‘‘maximum
consciousness’’ by allowing ‘‘people to be observers
of themselves while acting’’.
 Humans have the tragic tendency to push toward
perfection regardless of the consequences.
 Goal: become aware of this and effect positive life
changes.
 A comic perspective: individuals reflect on
themselves, learn from experiences and recognise
the limitations they have constructed.
Kenneth Burke

6.  The role of technology
 Accuracy of visions
 Do we want to inhabit such a world?
 Trailer: (fake)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mFRV
PAF2rFo
Neuromancer

7.  Entelechial extension – purely aesthetic
 Alarming body modification
 Cyborgs
 The brain can be manipulated
 Ramifications of technology
Technology

8.  Incongruous ideas expose things
previously obscured by habit
 E.g. the artificial beings want relationships
while primary characters are emotionally
detached.
Perspective by incongruity

9.  Computers could feed ideas into humans
 Have human cunning
 Devise ways to enhance themselves
 Are computers really tools used BY
humans?
Perception of computers

10.  Gibson criticised
for not providing
solutions
 Irony is up to
interpretation
 Results of
reflection differ
Limitations