FILE PHOTO: The Three Body Problem, by Chinese science fiction writer Liu Cixin, was the first novel by an Asian writer to win a Hugo Award for Best Novel.   [The Three Body Problem] 

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In an era of rapid technological advancements, science fiction is gaining unprecedented influence in the public sphere. Is the bizarre and fantastical world of science fiction merely the product of boundless artistic imagination? Far from it. The narrative of science fiction follows a set of underlying discursive paradigms and ethical norms that regulate the scope of authorial imagination, shape the logical structure of the story, and guide the life-altering decisions of the characters, ultimately conveying specific value propositions through narration.

Ethical dimensions

Ethics consists of two dimensions: rational ethics and narrative ethics. Rational ethics focuses on normativity, concepts, and rules, representing metaphysical rational principles. Narrative ethics, on the other hand, emphasizes experience, expression, and metaphor, offering a symbolic discourse that reveals rational ethical principles through the portrayal of various life experiences. In traditional narratives, ethical norms often center around interpersonal relationships, social order, and the narrator’s professional codes within the real world. In science fiction, however, ethical concerns entail unique interpretative contexts and discursive dimensions.

On one hand, the ethical value of science fiction lies in its cautionary role, extrapolating scientific and technological progress into the future. Numerous classic science fiction works have depicted terrifying scenarios of out-of-control technology, urging humanity to carefully weigh the pros and cons of technological development, adhere to fundamental ethical standards, and avoid blindly pursuing technological advancement at the cost of potential disasters. On the other hand, science fiction also reflects the value systems of human ethical practice. The decisions made by characters in surreal scenarios frequently reflect fundamental ethical concepts. These narrative constructions emphasize themes such as love, courage, and responsibility, prompting readers to reflect on their interpersonal relationships and actions, thus fostering ethical self-regulation.

Discursive paradigm

Science fiction often portrays human survival under extreme circumstances and various “exceptional conditions.” The ethical paradigm in science fiction manifests as both the “explicit ethics” externalized within the narrative text, and the “implicit ethics” internalized in narrative acts. Although science fiction typically constructs imaginary worlds or extraordinary scenarios, it often serves a narrative function by referencing and reflecting reality, requiring it to subject artistic imagination to general scientific laws and principles. Despite the responsibility of accurately depicting the new issues and changes associated with social development and technological progress, creators should neither overlook real-world ethical dilemmas in the pursuit of original and novel plots, nor distort the narrative for the sake of surprise or sensationalism.

For example, historical science fiction may employ exaggeration and distortion to showcase the extraordinary nature of certain ancient artefacts. However, artistic imagination should be guided by scientific rationality to prevent readers from overinterpreting ancient objects or phenomena through the lens of modern knowledge and experience, making them seem “supernatural.” Similarly, visions of the future should not excessively amplify the extraordinary capabilities of certain technologies.

Value intentions

In light of the above discussion, the ethical orientation of science fiction requires achieving a dynamic balance between narrative acts (implicit ethics) and content (explicit ethics). This balance encompasses two primary value-guiding dimensions: the flexible dimension of spiritual solace, emotional comfort, and moral intervention; and the rigid dimension of reflections on technology, critique of human nature, and utopian comparison.

Since science fiction primarily depicts the “exceptional conditions” of human existence, it should integrate a rigid value-guiding function alongside traditional narratives focused on spiritual guidance and moral self-discipline, testing human nature with suffering and dire circumstances.

Characters in science fiction maintain their ethical bottom lines even in the most desperate situations or when faced with value conflicts—willing to share, cooperate, and rebuild hope. This demonstrates that, even in the darkest moments, noble qualities continue to shine. Such ethical portrayal avoids didactic moralizing and instead offers emotional comfort through spiritual inspiration, encouraging a conscious return to the normal course of life.

In conclusion, the narrative ethics in science fiction subject humanity to a “mental trial,” continually testing ethical boundaries and helping readers recognize the diverse facets of human nature and morality. It is this complex, authentic quality that defines the unique and fascinating essence of human civilization. Science fiction, on this basis, reflects unfamiliar cognitive paradigms hidden beneath everyday appearances, offering readers both intellectual and emotional enlightenment.

Bao Yuanfu is a professor from the School of Communication at Guizhou Minzu University.

Edited by WANG YOURAN