Schismatrix

Historical Context and Significance

Bruce Sterling's novel «Schismatrix», published in 1985, is a significant milestone in the cyberpunk and post-cyberpunk genres. It explores themes of transhumanism, political fragmentation, and cultural evolution in a future where humanity is divided into two main factions: the Shapers and the Mechanists. The Shapers aim for biological enhancements, while the Mechanists rely on mechanical and cybernetic modifications. The book delves into complex social and philosophical questions related to technological progress and its impact on human identity. «Schismatrix» has had a considerable influence on the development of science fiction, pushing the boundaries of the genre and inspiring subsequent generations of writers to explore themes of post-human existence and cultural evolution. The novel also stands out for its unique style and depth of world-building, making it an important work for understanding the evolution of science fiction in the late 20th century.