I've told you more than once: science fiction doesn't predict the future, but it often inspires him. And it also applies to defense mechanisms against future threats. Countries like the UK and France they explore dystopian visions by authors such as Arthur C. Clarke,en e Isaac Asimov to imagine future scenarios and prevent possible dangers. Here are some.
Super Soldiers: The War of the Future?
Super soldiers are a recurring theme in science fiction, and come in many forms. Often “superpowers” derive from technology, as in the “Starship Troopers” novels by Robert A. Heinlein and “Eternal Mission” by Joe Haldeman.
The biological contribution is now added to the technological contribution: the latest scenarios they explore how super soldiers can be upgraded with stronger muscles and even additional organs.
Drones: the phantom menace
Drone operations play an increasingly important role in modern warfare. Science fiction has long predicted these types of threats, and they are only a direct consequence of technological developments on the planet.
In “Ender Game” by Orson Scott Card, child protagonist Ender Wiggin learns that he has remotely commanded real forces in a space war. In reality, killing machines like these they can already decide for themselves how to do their job.
Bioengineering: animals at the service of man
In addition to drones and advanced technologies, science fiction makes us reflect on biological sciences and the role of animals used in humanitarian operations in war.
In the novel “Dogs of War” by Adrian Tchaikovsky, the protagonist is a bioengineered dog, a real "war dog" who follows orders without asking questions. Who knows if it's worse to find a real one in front of you, or a robotic one.
The Threats of Manipulation: Drugs and Mind Control
Science fiction has a lot to say about drugs and how drugs can be used to alter reality and change behavior. Philip K. Dick he is perhaps the most famous author in this field, with novels such as “Ubik”. Even TV series like “Firefly” deal with the threats posed by substances capable of controlling populations and making them more docile.
If things seem unbelievable to you, know that peograms like the CIA's MK-ULTRA have already gone further. Sometimes what is frightening about science fiction is that it can always be surpassed by reality.
Instead, it can be an invaluable guide for governments in anticipating and addressing future threats. We hope our leaders learn from the lessons in science fiction to avoid turning our world into a dystopia.
