Do cyborgs dream of electric queers?

  • David Reynolds

    Abstract

    DO CYBORGS DREAM OF ELECTRIC QUEERS? is an auto-theoretical experiment that explores the imminent potentialities at the intersection of queerness and science fiction. Integrating the notion of the cyborg as a conduit for imagining radical exteriority, this thesis considers and enacts my central postulation; that a disengagement from the contingent concerns of the quotidian presented within queer futurity provides a fertile locus from which to imagine the alternative aesthetic possibilities of future-oriented queer world-making. Drawing on the work of Donna Haraway, Quentin Meillassoux, Samuel Delany, David Burrows and Simon O’Sullivan—and alongside my own observations and reflections—the thesis maps out and documents the reference points, processes of thinking and making and conclusions and contributions of my project. It is to be considered a record of the methods and approaches undertaken during an investigation of imagining queer worlds disconnected from the logics of normative value systems. It also lays out the evolution of a Queer Extro-Science Fiction.(Q(X)(SF)) methodology and genre; a central component and key finding of this research which guided the iterative development of this thesis.

    The culmination of this research, created using Q(X)(SF) is presented as a work of illustrated, speculative fiction entitled Pink Silk. Through both content and form, this fiction embodies and performs the premise of my thesis. It contributes concomitantly to an arts-research discourse and queer theory and provides an original contribution to the fledgling genre of Q(X) (SF).
    Date of Award3 Sept 2024
    Original languageEnglish
    Awarding Institution
    • Northumbria University
    SupervisorCorin Sworn (Supervisor) & Gavin Butt (Supervisor)

    Keywords

    • science fiction
    • extro-science fiction
    • world-making
    • futurity
    • erotohistoriography

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