Teaching Students About Do Androids Dream Of Electric Sheep
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“Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?” is a science fiction novel written by American author Philip K. Dick in 1968. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, the novel explores the theme of empathy and the nature of humanity. Teaching students about this classic novel can help them understand complex themes and provide valuable insights into human emotions, technology’s role in society, and the consequences of our actions on the environment.
Background
Introducing students to “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?” requires providing context about the novel’s setting and its place in science fiction history. The story takes place in 2021 after a devastating global conflict known as World War Terminus. The war has rendered Earth almost uninhabitable, with radioactive dust covering the planet leading to mass animal extinction. The remaining population is encouraged to emigrate to other planets. The novel’s protagonist, Rick Deckard, is a bounty hunter charged with identifying and retiring rogue androids who pose a threat to humans.
Understanding Empathy
At its core, “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?” explores the concept of empathy and asks what it means to be human. Students should analyze how empathy is portrayed through different characters and scenes in the novel. For instance, the Voigt-Kampff test, used in the book to differentiate between humans and androids, is based on measuring one’s empathic response to specific stimuli.
Discuss the role empathy plays for various characters such as Rick Deckard, John Isidore, and Luba Luft. Encourage students to consider whether empathy implies a moral code that goes beyond species boundaries.
Technology’s Role in Society
The novel presents a world where technology plays an essential part in daily life – from owning robotic pets as status symbols to relying on mood-enhancing devices like Penfield Mood Organs for emotional stimulation. Have your students examine and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of such technologies portrayed in the novel. Encourage them to compare it with the reliance on technology in today’s society.
Environmental Consequences
The environmental devastation caused by World War Terminus raises questions about humanity’s responsibility for preserving the environment. Present students with a discussion about how humans must address ecological issues and learn from the consequences described in the novel. You may relate this topic to contemporary environmental concerns such as climate change, pollution, and species extinction.
Film Adaptation: Blade Runner
The 1982 film “Blade Runner,” directed by Ridley Scott, is loosely based on Dick’s novel. Screenings of selected scenes or the whole film can provide an opportunity to discuss how it visually interprets and adapts the themes present in “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?” Encourage your students to consider important differences between the novel and its cinematic adaptation, as well as focus on aspects like visual storytelling, music, and other elements that contribute to the film’s atmosphere.
Conclusion
Teaching students about “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?” offers an engaging way to explore themes of empathy, humanity, technology’s impact on society, and environmentalism. By analyzing characters, plot points, and comparing the novel with its film adaptation “Blade Runner,” students will gain a deeper understanding of these complex topics and make valuable connections to their own lives and society.