Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? Book Summary
The inspiration for the films Blade Runner and Blade Runner 2049
TL;DR
Set in a post-apocalyptic future, 'Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?' explores the blurred lines between humans and androids, questioning what it means to be truly human.
What is Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? about
'Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?' by Philip K. Dick is a science fiction novel set in a post-apocalyptic 2021, where World War Terminus has decimated Earth's population and environment. The survivors either live on a barren Earth or have emigrated to off-world colonies. On Earth, owning a real animal is a status symbol, and those who can't afford one settle for remarkably lifelike electric animals. The protagonist, Rick Deckard, is a bounty hunter tasked with 'retiring' rogue androids, which have escaped their off-world servitude. The novel delves into themes of humanity, artificial intelligence, and the essence of reality, making it a cornerstone of both literary and cinematic science fiction.
Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? 7 Key Takeaways
World War Terminus Aftermath
The novel is set in the aftermath of a catastrophic World War that has wiped out many species and forced humanity either off-planet or into bleak, polluted cities. This setting serves as the backdrop for the story's events.
Rick Deckard's Mission
Rick Deckard, a bounty hunter, is tasked with 'retiring' (killing) six rogue androids hiding on Earth. His job requires him to distinguish humans from highly advanced androids, which is increasingly difficult.
Empathy Box and Mercerism
The inhabitants of Earth connect emotionally through an 'empathy box,' which allows them to experience the suffering of a Christ-like figure named Mercer. This technology highlights the theme of collective human experience and empathy.
Encounter with Rachael Rosen
Deckard meets Rachael Rosen, an advanced android from the Rosen Corporation. Her seductive and manipulative nature complicates Deckard's mission, raising questions about his own humanity and morality.
The Nexus-6 Androids
The rogue androids that Deckard must retire are Nexus-6 models, highly advanced and nearly identical to humans. Their presence on Earth challenges the perception of what it means to be alive.
Internal Conflict
Throughout his mission, Deckard grapples with his own ethical and emotional dilemmas, questioning the morality of killing beings that exhibit human-like emotions and experiences.
Climax and Resolution
The story reaches its climax as Deckard faces and 'retires' the last of the rogue androids. The resolution leaves him introspective, questioning the nature of life and the thin line between human and machine.
Top Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? Quotes
- 'Do androids dream? Mr. Deckard, you asked me once if it was possible for an android to create a false memory.'
- 'Empathy, evidently, existed only within the human community, whereas intelligence to some degree could be found throughout every phylum and order including the arachnida.'
Who should read Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep??
This book is ideal for readers interested in science fiction, philosophical questions about humanity, and the ethical implications of artificial intelligence. Fans of the 'Blade Runner' films will also find the novel's deeper exploration of these themes compelling.
Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? Best Reviews
- 'A kind of pulp-fiction Kafka, a prophet.'—The New York Times
- 'The most consistently brilliant science fiction writer in the world.'—John Brunner
- '[Philip K. Dick] sees all the sparkling—and terrifying—possibilities . . . that other authors shy away from.'—Rolling Stone
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Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? FAQs
What is the main point of 'Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?'
The book examines what it means to be human, questioning reality and blurring the lines between real and artificial. It portrays humans as becoming inhuman and androids as becoming human, challenging the essence of humanity.
How many books are there in the 'Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?' series?
The novel has been adapted into a six-volume hardcover comic series that collects the story originally published in 24 issues.
How long does it take to read 'Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?'
The average reader will spend about 3 hours and 13 minutes reading this book at a pace of 250 words per minute.